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UNDP Project DocumentGovernment of Federated States of Micronesia and UNDP

Executing Agency / Implementing Partner: (1) Office of Environment and Emergency Management (OEEM)

Additional partners: National: (2) Department of Resources and Development Division of Resource and Development, Agriculture Program and Marine Program; Chuuk State: (3) Department of Agriculture;

(4) Department of Marine Resources; (5) Environmental Protection Agency; Pohnpei State: (6) Department of Land and Natural Resources; (7) Department of Public Safety; (8) Environmental

Protection Agency; Kosrae State: (9) Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority; Yap State: (10) Department of Resources and Development; (11) Environmental Protection Agency; (12) Yap

Community Action Program (YapCAP)

United Nations Development Programme

UNDP GEF PIMS no. 5517

Atlas Award and Project ID: (to be determined)

Implementing an integrated “Ridge to Reef” approach to enhance ecosystem services, to conserve globally important biodiversity and to

sustain local livelihoods in the FSM

PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]1

Brief description

Marine and terrestrial biodiversity and ecosystem services underpin social well-being and the economy of the Federated States of Micronesia, and are vital to food security. These resources and services, however, are currently being undermined by unsustainable natural resource use and practices; spread of invasive alien species; the impacts of climate change; and, the limitations of government to effectively implement its programs and policies.

This project is designed to engineer a paradigm shift in the approach to and management of natural resources from an ad-hoc species/site/problem centric approach to a holistic ecosystem-based management “ridge to reef” approach guided by planning and management process that are informed by actual data. The shift to an ecosystem-base approach within National and State governments will ensure that whole island systems are managed to enhance ecosystem goods and services, to conserve globally important biodiversity and to sustain local livelihoods.

The project will promote an integrated approach towards fostering sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation by seeking greater awareness, knowledge and participation of all stakeholders in achieving a greater balance between environmental management and development needs. In doing so it will reduce conflicting land-uses and land-use practices, and improve the sustainability of terrestrial and marine management so as to maintain the flow of vital ecosystem services and sustain the livelihoods of local communities. Further, the project will demonstrate sustainable land management practices testing new management measures, as needed, to reduce existing environmental stressors and institutional limitations.

The project will also enhance the FSMs capacities to effectively manage its protected area estate as well as increase the coverage of the terrestrial and marine protected area network on the High Islands.

Programme Period:2014-2018 Total resources required $Total allocated resources $17,861,500

Atlas Ward ID: RegularProject ID o GEFTF $4,689,815PIMS # 5517 OtherStart date: 2015 o R&D $1,000,000End date:2019 o Pohnpei State $2,000,000

o Kosrae State $1,350,000Management arrangements: o Chuuk State $2,700,000PAC meeting date o Yap State $1,461,500

o Micronesia Conservation Trust $5,000,000o Conservation Society of Pohnpei $1,900,000o Yela Environmental Landowners Association $150,000o Kosrae Conservation and Safety Organization $750,000o The Nature Conservancy $1,500,000o UNDP $50,000


Table of Contents

ACRONYMS.................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

SECTION I: ELABORATION OF THE NARRATIVE.........................................................................................9PART I: SITUATION ANALYSIS.................................................................................................................................................9

Introduction............................................................................................................................................................................. 9Context and global significance.................................................................................................................................... 13

Global and national biodiversity context..................................................................................................................................................13Ecosystem Services............................................................................................................................................................................................ 15Biodiversity Conservation...............................................................................................................................................................................15Protected Area Network.................................................................................................................................................................................. 18Institutional context.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 21Capacity Constraints.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 27Biodiversity Monitoring................................................................................................................................................................................... 31Protected Area Finance.................................................................................................................................................................................... 31Legislative framework - SLM......................................................................................................................................................................... 33Legislative framework - PAs.......................................................................................................................................................................... 35Policy........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 38

Threats, Root causes and Impacts............................................................................................................................... 40Long-term solution and barriers to achieving the solution..............................................................................46Stakeholder analysis.......................................................................................................................................................... 52Baseline analysis.................................................................................................................................................................. 69

PART II: STRATEGY................................................................................................................................................................ 72Project Rationale and Policy Conformity.................................................................................................................. 72Rationale and summary of GEF Alternative............................................................................................................ 73Project Goal, Objective, Outcomes and Outputs/activities................................................................................75

Component 1: Integrated Ecosystems Management and Rehabilitation on the High Islands of the FSM to enhance Ridge to Reef Connectivity (Outcome 1)...................................................................................................................................................77Component 2: Management Effectiveness enhanced within new and existing PAs on the High Islands of FSM as part of R2R approach (Outcome 2).............................................................................................................................................................87

Cost-effectiveness................................................................................................................................................................ 97Project consistency with national priorities/plans..............................................................................................98Country Ownership: Country Eligibility and Country Drivenness..................................................................99Sustainability and Replicability................................................................................................................................. 101UNDP’s Comparative Advantage............................................................................................................................... 101

PART III: MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS.....................................................................................................................104Implementation Arrangements.................................................................................................................................. 104Project Management....................................................................................................................................................... 106

Project Oversight.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 106Project Management at the central level................................................................................................................................................106Project Management at the State level....................................................................................................................................................106Project accounting and procurement processes................................................................................................................................106

PART IV: MONITORING FRAMEWORK AND EVALUATION.............................................................................................107Monitoring and reporting............................................................................................................................................. 107

Project start-up................................................................................................................................................................................................. 107Quarterly.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 108Annually............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 109Periodic Monitoring through site visits..................................................................................................................................................109Mid-term of project cycle..............................................................................................................................................................................109End of Project..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 110Learning and knowledge sharing..............................................................................................................................................................110Communications and visibility requirements.....................................................................................................................................110Monitoring and Evaluation work plan and budget............................................................................................................................111


Audit Clause........................................................................................................................................................................ 112PART V: LEGAL CONTEXT...................................................................................................................................................113

SECTION II: STRATEGIC RESULTS FRAMEWORK (SRF) AND GEF INCREMENT............................114PART I: STRATEGIC RESULTS FRAMEWORK, SRF (FORMERLY GEF LOGICAL FRAMEWORK) ANALYSIS............114PART II: INCREMENTAL REASONING, EXPECTED GLOBAL, NATIONAL AND LOCAL BENEFITS................................120

SECTION III: TOTAL BUDGET AND WORKPLAN.....................................................................................124

SECTION IV: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION............................................................................................... 126PART I: OTHER AGREEMENTS............................................................................................................................................126

Co-financing Letters........................................................................................................................................................ 126PART II: STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT PLAN................................................................................................................127

PROJECT ANNEXES........................................................................................................................................... 129ANNEX 1: MAPS..................................................................................................................................................................... 129ANNEX 2: TERMS OF REFERENCES FOR KEY PROJECT STAFF.........................................................................................135

Project Coordinator......................................................................................................................................................... 135Finance and Procurement administrator.............................................................................................................. 135Overview of Inputs from Technical Assistance Consultants...........................................................................135

ANNEX 3: OFFLINE RISK LOG..............................................................................................................................................137ANNEX 4: PROJECT DESIGN STAKEHOLDER RECORD.......................................................................................................138ANNEX 5: SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION..............................................................................................146ANNEX 6: SUMMARY OF BARRIERS AND LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS TO BARRIERS IDENTIFIED BY STAKEHOLDERS DURING THE PPG PROCESS..................................................................................................................................................160ANNEX 7: CURRENT AND PROPOSED NEW PROTECTED AREAS OF THE FSM “HIGH ISLANDS”............................163ANNEX 8: THE LIST OF PA FOCUS SITES SELECTED FOR THE R2R PROJECT...........................................................166ANNEX 9: A SUMMARY OF THE FSM PAN GAP ANALYSIS..........................................................................................170SIGNATURE PAGE.............................................................................................................................................................173


List of Tables

Table 1. Summary of the total number and extent of PAs in the high islands of FSM...........................................................18Table 2. A summary of the area and number PAs selected as PA Focus Sites for the R2R Project...................................20Table 3. Summary of the key institutions tasked with biodiversity conservation and environmental management in FSM....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 22Table 4. Summary of unclear roles and responsibilities of role-players in SLM and PA management..........................24Table 5. Policy strategic planning documents relevant to SLM and PA management in FSM...........................................42Table 6 Barriers and long-term solutions................................................................................................................................................. 47Table 7 Current roles of stakeholders in SLM and PA management and their indicative role in this project............53Table 8. Biodiversity research and information stakeholders relevant to FSM.......................................................................63Table 9. Summary of baseline financing of environmental programs in FSM..........................................................................65Table 10 GEF focal area outcome and indicators................................................................................................................................. 72Table 11. Summary of R2R project partner roles.................................................................................................................................. 76Table 12 Component 1 outcomes and outputs....................................................................................................................................... 78Table 13. Summary of number and area of existing and new PAs targeted by this project...............................................88Table 14. A summary List of the Focus PAs the R2R project will be targeting.........................................................................89Table 15 Component 2 outcomes and outputs....................................................................................................................................... 90Table 16. Multilateral environmental agreements ratified by FSM...........................................................................................101Table 17. Summary of GEF and UNDP tracking tools completed during the PPG phase of the project......................107Table 18. M&E Activities, Responsibilities, Budget and Time Frame.........................................................................................111Table 19. Coordination and collaboration between project and related initiatives...........................................................127Table 20. Overview of Inputs from Technical Assistance Consultants.......................................................................................135Table 21. The list of stakeholders consulted during the PPG......................................................................................................... 138Table 22. Summary of National and State legislation relating to environmental management and biodiversity conservation........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 146Table 23. The current FSM PAN and proposed new PAs identified by stakeholders during the PPG process..........163Table 24. The list of R2R PA Focus Sites selected by stakeholders during the PPG process..............................................166Table 25. Summary of the GAP analysis for the FSM PAN based on the 2009 TNC study..........................................170

List of Figures

Figure 1. The extent to which MC conservation targets for biodiversity features in FSM are achieved by the current PAN.______________________________________________________________________________________________________________21

List of Maps

Map 1: Location of the 4 high-island project sites (orange arrows) within the Federated States of Micronesia.__129Map 2. Land-cover and protected areas of Yap Island (from TNC FSM Blueprint 2002).___________________________130Map 3. Land-cover and protected areas of Chuuk atoll (from TNC FSM Blueprint 2002).__________________________131Map 4. Land-cover and protected areas of Pohnpei Island (from TNC FSM Blueprint 2002).______________________132Map 5. Land-cover and protected areas of Kosrae Island (from TNC FSM Blueprint 2002).________________________133Map 6. The implementation spatial framework for the R2R Project.______________________________________________134


AcronymsABS Area of biodiversity of significanceAG Attorney GeneralBSAP Biodiversity Strategic Action PlanCBO Community-based organizationCCO Community Conservation OfficerCCS Chuuk Conservation SocietyCEPF Critical Ecosystem Partnership FundCES Cooperate Extension Service (FSM COM) CHM FSM Clearing-House Mechanism (FSM CHM)CI Conservation InternationalCOM Collage of MicronesiaCSO Civil Society OrganisationCSP Conservation Society of PohnpeiDEM Digital terrain modelDFMC Pohnpei State Division of Forestry and Marine ConservationDFW Pohnpei State Department of Public Safety’s Division of Fish and WildlifeDLNR Pohnpei State Department of Land and Natural ResourcesDLNR-F Pohnpei State Department of Land and Natural Resources - Forestry DivisionDREA Department of Resources and Economic AffairsDSAP Development Sustainable??EEZ Exclusive Economic ZoneEIA Environmental Impact AssessmentEPA Environmental Protection AgencyEU Europe UnionFA Farmer’s AssociationFIA Forestry Inventory AssessmentFSM Federated States of MicronesiaFSP Full Sized ProjectFY Financial yearGDP Gross Domestic ProductGEF-UNEP Global Environmental Facility – United Nations Environmental ProgramGIS Geographic information systemGIZ Gesellschaft fuer International ZusammenarbeitGLISPA Global Island PartnershipIAS Invasive Alien SpeciesIEMP Integrated Environmental Management Plan IFCP Island Food Community of Pohnpei ILMP Integrated Land Management PlanIMS Information management systemINRM Integrated Natural Resource ManagementIOM International Organisation for Migration


IPC International project coordinatorIST Invasive Species TaskforceiSTOP Invasive Species Taskforce of PohnpeiIUCN International Union Conservation NatureIWRM Integrated Water Resource managementJICA Japan International Cooperation AgencyKa “Ka” trees (Terminalia carolinensis)KCSO Kosrae Conservation and Safety OrganizationKIRMA Kosrae Island Resources Management Authority KLUP Kosrae Land-use PlanLD Land degradationLMMEMC Micronesia ChallengeMCT Micronesian Conservation TrustMDG Millennium Development GoalsMETT Management Effectiveness Tracking ToolMERIP Marine and Environmental Institute of PohnpeiMICMINA Micronesia (previously Mariana) Islands Nature AllianceMIS Management information systemMMICMOU Memorandum of Understanding MPA Marine Protected AreaMSP Medium Size ProjectMTC Making the CaseNAP National Action PlanNBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Action PlanNCD Non-Communicable DiseasesNEMS National Environmental Management StrategiesNGO Non-governmental organizationNRCS Natural Resources Conservation ServiceNSDS National Sustainable Development StrategiesNTAs No-take marine protected areasOEA Office of Economic Affairs OEEM FSM Office of Environment and Emergency ManagementOFA Pohnpei State Office of Fisheries and AquaculturePA Protected areaPAC Piggery Advisory CouncilPACC Pacific Adaptation to Climate Change PAN Protected area networkPAs Protected areasPFA Pohnpei Farmers Association PICs Pacific Island CountriesPIF Pacific Islands ForumPIF Project identification formPRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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PIMPACPIU Project Implementation UnitPRC People’s Republic of ChinaPREL Pacific Resources for Education and LearningPRMC Pohnpei Resource Management CommitteePSC Project Steering CommitteeR&D FSM Department of Resources and Development (FSM R&D)R2R Ridge-to-ReefRARE RareREA Rapid Ecological AssessmentRMC Resource Management Committee RSTC Regional Scientific and Technical Committee of the Pacific Island CommunitySakau Piper methysticum or “kava”SALT Slope Agriculture Land Technology SAP Strategic Action PlanSBOC Statistics Budget and Economic Management OverseasSD Sustainable DevelopmentSDP Sustainable Development PlanSEA Strategic Environmental Assessment SLM Sustainable land managementSOPAC Applied Geoscience and Technology Division (SOPAC) of the Secretariat of the

Pacific Community (SPC)SPAGS Spawning aggregation sitesSPC Secretariat of the Pacific CommunitySPREP Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment ProgramSTAR GEF System for Transparent Allocation of Resources (STAR) projectsTNC The Nature ConservancyUNCCD United Nations Convention on the Conservation of BiodiversityUNDP MCO

United Nations Development Programme Multi-Country Office

USFS United States Forestry ServiceWFR Watershed Forest ReserveYELA Yela Environment Landowners Association


SECTION I: Elaboration of the Narrative

PART I: Situation Analysis

INTRODUCTION

1. The Federal States of Micronesia (FSM) is an independent sovereign island nation consisting of four States spread across the Western Pacific Ocean (from west to east): Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae (Map 1). Together, the States comprise 607 islands that stretch over a longitudinal distance of almost 3,000 km mostly located between 6 and 10 degrees north of the equator. The combined land area the FSM [High Islands and Atolls] is approximately 728 km2 with 2,700,000 km2 of EEZ in the Pacific Ocean. The total area of High Island is approximately 658 km2 (Yap 97 km2, Chuuk 95 km2, Pohnpei 358 km2 and Kosrae 110 km2).

2. The governance structure in the FSM is such that each State has a high level of autonomy. The legislation and institutional framework of the Federated States of Micronesia is under scribed by National and individual State constitutions. The most recently available population estimates suggest that the population is 103,000. Of this population, 50% live on Chuuk, 33% on Pohnpei, 10% in Yap and the rest in Kosrae. FSMs HDI value for 2012 was 0.645 – placing it in the medium human development category –117 out of 187 countries and territories. Micronesia receives guaranteed funds (approximately $130 million annually until 2023) under a compact with the USA, which are invested in education, health, infrastructure, public sector capacity building, private sector development, and environmental management. A Trust Fund has also been established, into which the US and the FSM make annual contributions, and the returns on which are expected to provide for the long-term financial sustainability of the country after 2023. FSM also receives income from the sale of fishing licenses to foreign fleets operating in its EEZ and there is an emerging tourism industry in some of the States. Agriculture forms a major part of the economy, but much of this is subsistence agriculture and is not recorded in the GDP (60% of FSM’s population is dependent on subsistence farming and fishing). Breadfruit, banana, taro, yam, sweet potato, cassava, coconut and tropical fruits are the staple foodstuffs, in addition to seafood. Swine production constitutes the primary livestock industry- pigs playing an important part in local culture. The main export commodities are fish, sakau (kava) and betel nuts.

3. The Ridge to Reef Concept: Healthy and well-managed river basins and coastal areas where people and nature thrive, is the vision behind IUCN’s initiative, ‘Ridge to Reef’ (R2R). R2R aims to protect, demonstrate sustainable approaches, and provide better economic understanding of the links between terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems. Well-managed coastal and estuarine ecosystems support livelihoods, income from fisheries, agriculture, tourism, and buffer coasts from the impacts of climate change. Wetland and marine environments (including coral reefs) are less vulnerable to damage and deliver greater ecosystem services when rivers are kept healthy. Coasts and river deltas support the


economies of many of the largest cities in the world, and also many isolated countries such as FSM. Solutions to water pollution are found in coordinating the use and management of land and water at the landscape scale from source to sea. By linking action and implementation in river basins and coasts, the aim is to support ecosystem services and improve livelihoods. The R2R approach is a holistic ecosystem-based or landscape-scale approach to land-use management and biodiversity conservation that focuses on the terrestrial, aquatic, estuarine and coastal ecosystems, and the linkages between these ecosystems. In FSM the R2R approach aims to enhance the sustainability of natural resources and conservation of biodiversity through understanding and promoting sustainable land-use practices and strengthening management capacity.

4. In line with the “ridge to reef” approach; the focus of the project will only be on the main islands (“high islands”) of each State that have some elevation, rather than on the atoll islands. These islands harbor the majority of terrestrial biodiversity and area also where the majority of the FSM population lives:

5. Yap State spans some 25,899,881 hectares of ocean. Its land area of about 11,633 ha consists of some 134 islands and atolls, 22 of which are populated. Lying at the western end of FSM, Yap differs from Eastern Micronesia in a number of ways. Climatically, it lies in an area that generally experiences a monsoon climatic pattern with some frequent periods of drought. The 3 High Islands of Yap (Yap proper, Map and Rumung) are small (land area of approximately 9,641 ha) and closely clustered appearing as a single island resulting in condensed natural communities from ridge top (174 m) to reef. The majority of land on Yap, including mangrove forests, is privately owned under a complex traditional tenure system. The general forest types of mainland Yap includes Upland Forest, Swamp Forest, Mangrove Forest and Agroforests. Agriculture is undertaken mainly for subsistence, the main crops being yam, banana, taro (Colcasia, Cryptosperma and Xanthosoma), coconut, citrus and cassava. Betel nut (Areca catechu) is probably the islands largest cash crop with a vibrant trade conducted with the Mariana Island group. The present vegetation is mainly coconut trees (Cocus nucifera), Pandanus trees (Calophyllum spp.), breadfruit (Artoparpus atilis) and small shrubs. Agroforestry constitutes the dominant farming system.

6. Chuuk State: The State of Chuuk consists of a group of partially sunken volcanic islands (14 in total) surrounded by a barrier reef spanning 63 km in diameter (known as Chuuk Lagoon - the area of focus of the project in Chuuk), and a number of outlying coral atolls and islands. The volcanic islands are characterised by steep uplands, which comprise 73% of the total land area. The maximum elevation on Weno Island is 370 m, Dublon 344 m, Fefan 300 m and Tol 443 m. Chuuk is the most populated state in the FSM. Chuuk Lagoon has a land area of 12,691 ha and a very high population density of 3.72 persons/ha. The lagoon islands of Chuuk State have the highest percent of land under agroforestry of the high islands of Micronesia. The main subsistence crops are banana, breadfruit, coconuts and taro. The small areas of intact forest atop the peaks of some lagoon islands are rich in endemic species and are a repository of some of the most endangered remnant forest patches and species in Micronesia.


7. Pohnpei State includes the high island of Pohnpei and a number of small islets situated within a large lagoon (focus of project), and Outer Atolls. Pohnpei Island is roughly circular, with a land area of about 35,500 ha. It is a steep and mountainous volcanic island. Eleven peaks rise more than 600 m above sea level. The interior vegetation is dominated by upland forests (2002 figures show only 13% remaining1) with sporadic occurrence of sakau (kava) fields that pose the gretest threat to this vegetation unit. Areas of intact native upland forests are of special interest because of the high rate of endemism. The dwarf cloud forests cloaking Pohnpei’s peaks are especially unique. The coastal areas and lower slopes are characterised by agroforestry (33%) and secondary vegetation (5%). Agroforestry has been expanding rapidly in recent decades. Agriculture is undertaken mainly for subsistence, the main crops being yam, banana, betel nut, vegetables, taro (Colcasia, Xanthosoma and Cryptosperma), coconut, citrus and cassava. The present agroforest vegetation is mainly base crops (yam, banana and taro), coconut palm (Cocus nucifera), betel nut palm (Areca catechu), pandanus and breadfruit (Artoparpus atilis). In Pohnpei, unlike in other States, the State owns much of the lagoon area rather than it being privately or communally owned, thus facilitating the establishment of State-owned marine protected areas.

8. Kosrae State: Kosrae is located at the eastern end of the Caroline Island group. The island is roughly triangular, with an area of about 11,000 ha. The island of Kosrae is characterised by steep mountains covered with dense forest. Several mountain peaks rise to 600 m above sea level, and Mt. Finkol is 629 m high. Deep wet valleys link the basaltic uplands to a wide alluvial plain along the island’s perimeter. Most of the island’s 6,616 inhabitants (2010 census) live along this perimeter. Mountainous areas make up about 70% of the island, with foot slopes, alluvial fans, and bottomlands comprising another 15% of the area. Approximately 14% the island is vegetated by mangrove swamps. Other vegetation types include upland forest, Swamp Forest, Mangroves, Cloud Forest, Secondary Forest, Agroforest, Marsh and Savanna Grassland. The island is fertile, though much of it is steep and inaccessible. Agriculture is undertaken mainly for subsistence, the main crops being yam, banana, betel nut, vegetables, taro (Colcasia, Xanthosoma and Cryptosperma), coconut, citrus and cassava. The present agroforest vegetation is mainly coconut trees (Cocus nucifera) and breadfruit (Artoparpus atilis)

9. Socio-economic Context: The FSM’s vision for the nation, as stated in the 2002 NBSAP, is that “The FSM will have more extensive, diverse, and higher quality of marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems, which meet human needs and aspirations fairly, preserve and utilize traditional knowledge and practices, and fulfill the ecosystem functions necessary for all life on Earth.” In support of this vision, the theme for the 2004 – 2023 SDP for the nation is ‘Achieving Economic Growth and Self Reliance’. External economic shocks and natural disasters will always threaten our development efforts and it is the Government’s hope that the implementation of the strategies outlined in the SDP will cushion the adverse impact of these shocks against the achievement of the national vision.

10. The agriculture, fisheries, and tourism sectors are recognized as providing the long-term growth potential and competitive advantage for the FSM. However, currently the largest single sector in the FSM economy is government services. Current commercial and business activity is dominated by informal and formal small- and medium-sized enterprises.

1 Federated States of Micronesia State-wide Assessment and Resource Strategy 2010 – 2015+.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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Apart from the government, telecommunications, and utilities corporations, few large businesses exist that can create major employment or single markets for other businesses. As such, most small businesses in the FSM can be characterized as having a small market share, and personalized owner operator or family management.

11. The economy of the FSM is relatively small with a current GDP at a purchase price in 2012 is US $ 326.2 million2, implying a per capita income of US$ 3,142.3 Out of 31,789 employed persons 16,658 persons (52.4%) were engaged in home production and 8,558 (26.9%) were involved in 'subsistence' (household consumption only) activities, not selling or intending to sell any of their produce. 6,130 (19.3%) were classified as 'market-oriented' farmers and fishermen. These numbers illustrate the importance of the subsistence sector in the FSM and reflect their contribution to domestic production in the country4. It can be assumed by these numbers also that much of the economic activity is not properly captured and goes unreported.

12. Agriculture is the most important primary activity in the nation because of its contribution to employment, wage income, export earnings, and subsistence production. In-country agricultural activities form the foundation of the nation’s food security by providing over 60% of the food consumed, and employ almost 50% of the labor force on a full-time or seasonal basis. Women make up a large proportion of this percentage, and there will be a continual focus upon this stakeholder group throughout. While FSM’s climate is well suited for year-round agriculture, farmland is in short supply because of the mountainous terrain on FSM’s larger islands5.

13. The FSM, in the socio-economic context, has also made strides to include Gender as a cross cutting issue in the areas of development and sustainable livelihoods. Recognizing that women are the cornerstone of the communities, the FSM has undertaken several recent projects related to SLM and gender. The Development of Sustainable Agriculture in the Pacific (DSAP) program that was implemented up to 2012 by the SPC and as well as the current EU renewable energy program specifically seeks to include and develop the role of the women as leaders in the process. Further, current efforts to meet the challenge of the global Millennium Development Goals (Goal #3 of the MDG – “Promote Gender Equality and Empower Women”) also clearly make it an objective for the FSM to aim for a greater role and representation of women in the echelon of politics, and for a more equal rate of pay in the workplace6. This MSP for SLM will allow further opportunity for the nation to continue to include and enhance the role of women in the development and decision making processes.

14. Fisheries. The ocean is arguably the country's most significant resource. Living marine resources are of great importance since they are a major source of subsistence, recreation, and commerce. The Micronesian culture is heavily influenced by the marine environment and resources. FSM's EEZ covers the world's major equatorial tuna migratory paths. This makes offshore tuna a primary fishery resource. The approximate market value of tuna

2 Source: Statistics Budget and Economic Management Overseas (SBOC)3 Financial year 2012, SBOC4 FSM 2010, SBOC5 FSM 2000 Census6 FSM National Millennium Development Goals Report 2007PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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harvested within the nation is about $200 million per year. FSM has in recent years earned $26.0 million annually in licensing fees paid by foreign vessels for tuna fishing within its EEZ. The total fish catch in FY 2012 was reported at 164,195 metric tons7.

15. Inshore reef resources are largely consumed locally and are an essential source of nutrition in the traditional Micronesian diet. All waters located within 12 nautical miles of the barrier reef falls under the jurisdiction of the respective state governments. Within these waters all forms of foreign commercial fishing are excluded. These inshore resources are managed, conserved and developed by the respective state governments, in association with resource owners. Recent Rapid Ecological Assessments (REAs) conducted in Pohnpei (2005)8, Yap (2007)9, Kosrae (2006)10 and Chuuk (2008) indicate that fish populations in reefs close to the larger, more urbanized areas are severely depleted. In some areas, reef destruction from over fishing, road-building, dynamiting (especially Chuuk), and dredging is extensive.

CONTEXT AND GLOBAL SIGNIFICANCE

Global and national biodiversity context

16. The oceanic islands of the FSM are critical storehouses of biodiversity. The country forms part of two Global 200 WWF ecoregions11, namely the Yap Tropical Dry Forest and the Caroline Tropical Moist Forest Ecoregion, and forms part of the Polynesia/Micronesia Hotspot12. The Yap Tropical Dry Forest contains the westernmost islands of Yap State. Yap’s Forests and savannas support a number of endemic plant species, including Drypetes yapensis, Drypetes carolenesis, Trichospermum kutai, Hedyotis yapensis, Timonius albus, Myrtella bennigseniana, Casearia cauliflora, and Dentaphalangium volkensii. The large tree Serianthes kanehirae and the distinctive tree Garcinia rumiyo are endemic to Yap and Palau. The Carolines Tropical Moist Forest Ecoregion contains the islands in Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk and the easternmost islets of Yap State. The dominant vegetation is mixed broadleaf forest with lowland vegetation dominated by mangrove and swamp forests. Located above 450 meters above mean sea level, dwarf cloud forests thrives on the unique combination of relatively high rainfall and volcanic soils. These cloud forests are a global rarity as they are some of the lowest elevation cloud forests in the world. Pohnpei’s Nanmeir en Salapwuk Valley holds what is considered to be the largest intact lowland tropical forest in the Pacific outside of Hawaii, and the Yela valley in Kosrae holds the largest remaining ka (Terminalia carolinensis) forest in the Pacific. Loss and degradation

7 Source SBOC8 Allen, G. R. (2005). Final Report: Reef Fishes of Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia. The Conservation Society of Pohnpei. AND Turak, E., & De Vantier, L. (2005). Reef-building corals and coral communities of Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia: Rapid ecological assessment of biodiversity and status. Conservation Society of Pohnpei.9 Allen, G. R. (2007). Final Report: Reef Fishes of Yap, Federated States of Micronesia.10 Donaldson, T.J., J. M. Maragos, M Luckymis, S. Palik, and O. Nedlic., 2007. Coral and fish surveys at Kosrae Island, July-August 2006, Federated States of Micronesia: a Preliminary Report prepared for the Kosrae Rapid Ecological Assessment. Prepared for Kosrae Conservation and Safety Organization and The Nature Conservancy. Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia. 36 pp.11 Olson, D.M. & Dinerstein, E. 2002. The Global 200: Priority Ecoregions for Global Conservation. Ann. Missouri Bot. Gard. 89:199 – 224.12 Mittermeier, R.A., Myers, N. & Mittermeier, C.G. 2000. Hotspots: Earth’s Biologically Richest and Most Endangered Terrestrial Ecoregions. Conservation International. PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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of these forest ecosystems continues due to development and other factors. For example, illegal cultivation of sakau (kava) in Pohnpei’s watershed forest because of the rich soil and unique climate results in forest loss and loosening of the soil, which also leads to landslides during heavy rainfalls.

17. The FSM has in general high levels of species diversity and endemism considering its small size13 - the 607 islands of FSM cover only 4,840km2. Over 1,239 species of ferns and flowering plants have been described in the FSM. Approximately 782 species are native, including about 145 species of ferns, 267 species of monocots and 370 species of dicots. Approximately 175 of these plants are considered endemic to the FSM. Micronesia as a bioregion is considered to have amongst the highest density of endemic plants in the world with each State in the FSM characterized by its own suite of endemic plant species (Yap 9, Chuuk 16, Pohnpei 47 and Kosrae 18 endemic plant species)14.

18. Terrestrial ecosystems also home to many unique avian, mammalian, reptilian and other species, including owls, flying foxes, parrots, giant geckos, skinks, dragonflies, freshwater gobys and land snails: 27 species of reptiles and amphibians (four endemic); four species of fruit bats (flying foxes) of the genus Pteropus (P. molosinnus, P. insularis, P. phaeocephalus, and P. ualnus) and a single endemic sheath-tailed bat of the genus Emballonura; and, 234 species of birds including 19 endemics, 20 threatened, 2 extinct and 13 introduced15. Endemic species including 2 monarchs (Truk Metabolus rugensis and Yap Monarcha godeffroyi), 2 flycatchers (Pohnpei Myiagra pluto and Oceanic Myiagra oceanica), Pohnpei fantail (Rhipidura kubaryi), Pohnpei flycatcher (Myiagra pluto), long-billed white-eye (Rukia longirostra), Pohnpei lorry (Trichoglossus rubiginosus), Caroline Islands Ground-Dove (Gallicolumba kubaryi), Mariana Fruit-Dove (Ptilinopus roseicapilla), and Critically Endangered Pohnpei mountain starling (Aplonis pelzeni). The current status of most of these species is unknown due to lack of ongoing or systemic monitoring, and lack of understanding of species habitat and ecological requirements. For example, in Pohnpei occasional attempts to find Pohnpei Starling in recent years have been unsuccessful. In the absence of a dedicated program to monitor such species their fate of the causes of their demise or success will remain un known.

19. FSMs coastline is about 6,100 km with reefs covering an estimated 14,517 km2, providing coastal protection and the source of livelihood for a majority of FSM citizens. These marine ecosystems are home to more than 1,000 species of fish, more than 350 species of hard coral, and 1,200 species of mollusks. The FSM’s High Islands are unique in Micronesia having a greater diversity of marine ecosystems arising from of combination of lagoon, fringing and barrier reefs around the high volcanic islands.

20. The biodiversity of FSM is relatively well documented, however, much of this information is housed in publications or foreign institutions and is not readily available locally. Moreover, very little quantitative information on the current distribution and status of this biodiversity is available to or used in environmental planning processes. General knowledge of FSMs biodiversity is very low amongst managers tasked with conserving this biodiversity. This situation is not surprising given that there are few review documents

13 Worte, O. L. 2010. Fourth Country Report from the Federated States of Micronesia to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. United Nations Support to GEF Eligible CBD Parties (GFL/2328-2716-4A82).14 Costion. C.M. and D.H. Lorence. 2012. The Endemic Plants of Micronesia: A Geographical Checklist and Commentary. Micronesica 43(1): 51–10015 http://avibase.bsc-eoc.orgPRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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covering the biodiversity of FSM. Falanruw (2002)16 is the most current text describing terrestrial biodiversity at the national scale, however, much of the information cited in this text is dated meaning that in practice current planning processes are using information that is sometimes decades old. There are no similar documents for the marine realm. There is a dire need for an up to date synthesis and description of the FSMs terrestrial and marine biodiversity and ecosystems that describes and catalogues this biodiversity as well as assesses its IUCN threatened status.

Ecosystem Services

21. Upland Forests provide critical hydrological services, both in terms of water provisioning and quality regulation. The extensive root systems of the forest trees and underlying plants and shrubs (aided by a ground layer of composting vegetation) serve to capture rainfall by slowing down runoff. This provides time for the water to sink into the ground where it is filtered and slowly released into streams and rivers. Through this process of slowing down rainwater surface runoff, the upland forests act to significantly reduce soil erosion, and thus help protect freshwater wetlands, mangrove areas and coral reefs from sedimentation and excessive nutient loading. Furthermore, by slowing down surface runoff and allowing rainwater to seep into the ground, the upland forests facilitate the slow release of ground water which helps ensure stream flow during relatively dry periods. It also acts to reduce the severity of flooding when it occurs.

22. Mangrove forests have multiple values – as fisheries habitat, for wood production, trapping sediment, and shoreline protection. Mangrove forests dampen the force of waves, including storm surges, and thus protect the coastline from erosion. The “fringe” (seaward) mangrove is especially valuable for this coastal protection function. Agroforests are complex and species-diverse anthropogenic forests that provide food, fiber, medicines and materials needed to support subsistence while at the same time supplying many of the ecosystem services of forests. The ecosystem service values of these forests has not been quantified. The potentially provide habitat for native fauna and play an ecological service role in, for example, water delivery. Agroforests, wetlands and mangrove forests also play an important role in reducing soil erosion and trapping sediment, releasing water of good quality into the marine environment. Turbidity and sediment has a negative effect on coral reefs from both a near-shore fishing and tourism prespective. Increasing pressure from a growing population is degrading the mangrove ecological functioning such as increased demand of wood and clearing of access routes though mangrove forest to improve to fishing areas.

23. Native forests also provide many non-timber resources to communities including medicinal plants, edible plants and bird species that are hunted. The extent to which these values are captured in the anthropogenic agroforest relative to native forest has not been quantified.

16 Falanruw, M.C., 2002. Terrestrial Biodiversity of the Federated States of Micronesia. FSM National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan Project. FSM Department of Economic Affairs and Global Environment Facility.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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Biodiversity Conservation

24. In addition to the conservation concerns, decades of development pressures has done much to influence the economic and political orientations of the country to overexploit its natural resources. As the states of the FSM develop economically, citizens are turning from subsistence fishing and farming to using natural resources for income and capital generation: “In the FSM, the pressure on the usage of the local terrestrial and marine resource base – bio-resources – is the single greatest threat to diversity, and cause for the decline in both forest cover, habitat for species loss of reef diversity, and nearshore and oceanic fish stocks.”17

25. The commercial fisheries sector provides an apt example of the challenges facing biodiversity conservation efforts in the FSM. In their 2008 report on commercial fisheries in Pohnpei state, Rhodes et. al (2008)18 outlines the community impacts and management challenges brought about by societal change in the FSM: “Many tropical Pacific communities are dependent on marine resources from coral reef and nearshore environments as a primary source of protein and income, with the loss of these resources substantially impacting food security and socio-economic structure. While the main impact typically attributed to coral reef environments is human disturbance from fishing, sedimentation, pollution, and global climate change are also playing increasing roles. Unfortunately, the pace of our understanding of human effects on coral reef habitats and associated organisms is considerably slower than the rate of disturbance, thereby creating a dilemma for marine resource managers and biologists tasked with offsetting or preventing resource loss. To further complicate matters, most developing Pacific tropical communities are resource limited, thereby reducing their ability to document, monitor, manage or enforce marine resources and the impacts to them, which often occur along substantial expanses of coastline. In many Pacific island communities, including Micronesia, the negative impacts to reefs have also been accelerated by the move from a barter system to a cash economy, greater access and improvements to gear, and a post-colonial shift from traditionally managed to openly accessed reefs. Finally, there are inherent complexities within many tropical communities between state authorities and local clan- or tribal-based communities, and even among clans, for ownership, management, and enforcement rights. To effectively protect the vital marine resources that these communities depend upon, there is a need to assist marine resource agencies in documenting and monitoring impacts to coral reef ecosystems and facilitate, through observations and recommendations, workable management solutions.”

26. Recognizing these challenges, and as described in Section “Institutional context”, a multitude of actors are working to conserve biodiversity in the FSM. To varying degrees, each of the States of the FSM have established PAs. The management of PAs is a joint effort between local communities, local NGOs, state agencies, the FSM national government and international donor and technical assistance organizations.

27. On the marine side, biodiversity conservation is currently focused on both protected areas and managed areas. The latter refers to areas where exploitation/development is allowable,

17 Worte, O. L. (2010). Fourth Country Report from the Federated States of Micronesia to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. United Nations Support to GEF Eligible CBD Parties (GFL/2328-2716-4A82), p. 7918 Rhodes, K., Tupper, M., & Wichilmel, C. (2008). Characterization and management of the commercial sector of the Pohnpei Coral Reef Fishery, Micronesia. Coral Reefs, Vol. 27: 443-454, p.443PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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but controlled by community rules/agreements. Examples of biodiversity conservation include networks of no-take marine protected areas across all jurisdictions, but also include fisheries regulations describing seasonal, size and certain gear/tackle bans, total prohibiting of sales of certain species. No-take protected areas are a common feature of all the FSM jurisdictions, yet they differ with respect to their size, management plan specifications, enforcement, community leadership and support, and thus, efficacy. Despite all the protected areas and partnership enhancement initiatives to manage these areas, unsustainble shoreline development continues to be approved by decision making bodies. In Pohnpei alone, there are over 50 dredged sites across the island. The efficacy of marine conservation areas will be reduced if shoreline habitats continues to be developed.

28. In terms of terrestrial biodiversity conservation efforts, PAs also exist and there is a particular emphasis on watershed management (for further details, refer to the SLM situational report). However, as described in Section 6 below, land and aquatic area ownership regimes vary from State affecting the nature of PAs. In fact, regulations and legislation are less standardized across FSM, and certain jurisdictions such as Pohnpei currently have the most stringent management policies pertaining to water quality and fisheries harvesting policies.

29. In order to strengthen and expand protected areas, FSM stakeholders are engaged in a variety of programming. For example, the Micronesian Challenge (MC)19 represents an influential movement that is currently addressing both protected and managed areas across FSM. “The Micronesia Challenge is a commitment by the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Palau, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands to preserve the natural resources that are crucial to the survival of Pacific traditions, cultures and livelihoods. The overall goal of the Challenge is to effectively conserve at least 30% of the near-shore marine resources and 20% of the terrestrial resources across Micronesia by 2020. Since its inception in 2006, the partnerships around the MC have supported work in over 150 sites/over 600,000 hectares, and have leveraged more than $30M to the region, of which $17M now sits in an endowment overseen by the Micronesia Conservation Trust. Earnings from the Micronesia Challenge Endowment will be distributed after successful establishment of Country Program Strategies in the Micronesia Challenge Jurisdictions. It is envisaged that the earnings will start flowing to community programs/projects by early 2015. Additionally, the Micronesia Challenge Initiative focuses on development of local and national sustainable financing mechanisms (e.g. the Yela Conservation Easement Endowment).

30. The MC will support the long-term protection of areas of highest biodiversity significance within the MC geographical region - spanning over 6.7 million square kilometers of island and ocean. The project’s support to strengthen and sustain the MC sub-region’s Protected Areas Networks, comprised mainly of community-managed conservation areas, will enable specific protection measures for at least 66 globally Red-listed species ranked ‘Vulnerable’ status or above, as well as make a significant contribution to the protection and management of approximately 300 endemic species of flora and fauna. The extent of protection envisaged by the five States is expected to exceed their commitments to global targets under the CBD of 10% coverage by 201020.

19 www.micronesiachallenge.org20 Micronesia Conservation Trust. (2014). Draft: Micronesia Challenge: Sustainable Finance Systems for Protected Area Management in 'Micronesia Challenge' States. UNEP Global Environment Facility Project Implementation Review for Fiscal PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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31. Through the MC, jurisdictions have improved resources to engage communities in establishing protected areas, creating acceptable management plans, instituting enforcement policies, and participating in regional coral, fisheries, forests/terrestrial and socio-economic monitoring efforts that serve to advise managers and decision makers on progress and trends towards their goals. In addition to the MC, which is a regional effort, local FSM NGOs are also engaged in PA management and support activities with support from international development and conservation organizations such as The Nature Conservancy, GEF-UNEP, Conservation International, RARE and numerous other organizations.

32. There is increasing awareness of the interconnectivity of land and water and the transition to an ecosystem-based approach to biodiversity conservation efforts in the FSM, embodied in the ‘ridge to reef’ concept. However, there is an urgent need to institutionalize and provide increased resources to allow these efforts to fully materialize. This proposed ‘Integrated Ecosystems Management’ project is therefore timely and very much needed in the FSM.

Protected Area Network

33. There are 35 existing terrestrial and marine PAs in the High Islands of the FSM covering 8,542 ha (Table 1 and Table 24). The PAN covers approximately 7% of the land area and 2% of the lagoon area of the High Islands. The FSM does not have a National PAN or State PA registers. These figures for the PAN are based on the stakeholder verification of the High Island PAN status conducted during the PPG process. An additional 17 candidate new or proposed PA sites covering 18,781 ha were also identified during the stakeholder engagement process (Table 1).

34. For the purposes of this process, existing PAs are defined as those with legal status or declared and managed by a community and are in the process of being legally recognized by the States. New PAs are defined as those that were recommended by stakeholders during the PPG process. New PA sites for the R2R project were identified solely on expert inputs from the stakeholder group. Identified sites relate strongly to Areas of Biological Significance (ABS) identified during the 2002 TNC Blueprint process and where community willing to create protected areas is high.

Table 1. Summary of the total number and extent of PAs in the high islands of FSM.

PA Status

Chuuk Kosrae Pohnpei Yap Total Area (ha)

Total Numbe

r of PAs

Area (ha)

Number of PAs

Area

(ha)

Number of PAs

Area (ha)

Number of PAs

Area

(ha)

Number of PAs

Existing Terrestrial

160 1 830 2 3415 3 69 6 4474 12

Marine 72 1 599 4 1568 9 1829 9 4068 23Existing Total

232 2 1429 6 4983 12 1898 15 8542 35

Proposed Terrestrial

575 5 351 2 4812 2 5738 9

Year 13.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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Marine 14045

4 170 2 340 2 14555

8

Proposed Total

14620

9 521 4 5152 4 20293

17

Grand Total

14852

11 1950 10 10135

16 1898 15 28835

52

35. In 2002 TNC and the National and State governments, with support from the US Forest Service, UNDP-GEF, and the US Department of the Interior, collected biological knowledge from regional scientists and local experts and mapped focus areas for biodiversity protection in “A Blueprint for Biodiversity Conservation in the Federated States of Micronesia”. This Blueprint identified 130 ABS sites, 24 of which were designated priority action areas. This work was intended to inform the creation of new PAs throughout the FSM. The identification of ABS through the Blueprint process was essentially an expert-driven process and not a quantitative systematic conservation assessment.

36. In 2009, TNC again worked with stakeholders throughout the country to conduct a Gap analysis of the FSM PAN to determine the extent to which coarse-scale terrestrial and marine biodiversity features are represented in the PAN . The analysis shows that in 2009 only 15% of identified biodiversity features have their MC target achieved within the existing PAN and 46% are not represented in the PAN at all (Table 26 and Figure 1).

37. TNC, in partnership with CSP and other state agencies, is continuing to collect data about the effectiveness of the country’s protected areas. For example, TNC conducted a review of 18 marine reserves in Pohnpei in 2014. Of these 8 are sites recommended for inclusion in the R2R project. This activity resulted in recommendations to increase the size of some PAs to better protect fish species. From the draft Review of Existing marine PAs based on movement patterns of key species in Pohnpei, TNC note the following key considerations for the PAN:

No-take marine reserves (NTAs) should be designed to take movement patterns of the key species they are aiming to protect into account. In particular, NTAs should be larger than the home range of key species.

Only 3 of the existing 18 MPAs are considered ecololgically viable PAs, i.e. large enough (>5km maximum diameter) to protect most of the key fish and invertebrate species. In other words the current PAN is doing a poor job at conserving ecological processes.

The other 15 MPAs are currently too small to protect most key fish species. However they are likely to have benefits for other species that do not move as far e.g. small grouper, surgeonfishes and parrotfish species, and most key species of invertebrates (e.g. sea cucumbers, trochus, giant clams that do not move or move very far, except mangrove crabs and lobsters that may move further)

38. The current PAN is not effectively conserving biodiversity patterns and ecological processes in the FSM. In the last decade the number of protected areas within FSM has grown. While PAs are growing in number, less has been done at the local and State level to ensure their ecological sustainability (i.e. building a representative PAN that can effectively


conserve both biodiversity pattern and the ecological processes responsible for maintaining those patterns). The Micronesia Challenge project supports the creation of a regional PAN. The MC project document includes a succinct summary as to why this is important: “This strategy recognizes that in Micronesia, grassroots engagement, spearheaded through the PAN Networks, must bring institutional strengthening, help develop finance and project management skills including granting and reporting procedures, and must encourage and coordinate conservation efforts over time21. TNC with its partners has been working since the early 2000’s to gather biodiversity data to inform PA development decision-making processes. The R2R project should work with TNC to support these continual efforts. There is a need for a comprehensive terrestrial-ecosystems conservation assessment of the high islands to determine where best to fill the gaps in the PAN. This assessment should:

Be spatial and be based on the best available scientific knowledge including data from thourough rapid biodiversity inventory of all the High Islands.

Verify the contribution of the current PAN and the new sites selected for the R2R project towards achieving MC targets (GAP analysis).

Identify additional PA sites necessary to achieve the R2R PA outcomes that are analytically independent of the ABS identified in 2002 and based on a systematic spatial biodiversity assessment methodology.

39. From the pool of 52 existing and proposed new PA sites, 40 were selected by stakeholders during the PPG process as Focus Sites for the R2R project to best achieve the PA targets specified in the PIF (Table 2 and Table 25). Sites were selected based (1) on known biodiversity attributes, i.e. a known ABS; (2) the presence of an existing PA development iniative at the site; and, (3) landowner willingness at the site is favourable for PA development. The selection of sites was not based on a rigorous systematic conservation assessment. It is also not known how well the selected sites contribute to achieving the MC conservation targets, however, given the major gaps in the PAN is highly likely that the selected sites make valuable contributions towards achieving conservation targets.

Table 2. A summary of the area and number PAs selected as PA Focus Sites for the R2R Project.

PA Status Terrestrial or Marine Area (ha) Number of SitesExisting Marine 3154 18

Terrestrial 4444 9Existing Total 7598 27New Marine 11799 6

Terrestrial 5589 7New Total 17388 13Grand Total 24986 40

21 Micronesia Challenge: Sustainable Finance Systems for Island Protected Area Management Project Document, 2010, p. 28PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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Johan Robinson, 09/12/14,

Suggest we reduce these figures to include only 16,000 ha of PAs (existing and new)

Figure 1. The extent to which MC conservation targets for biodiversity features in FSM are achieved by the current PAN.

Sustainable Land Management

40. Currently SLM is active in all four States through both government and NGO driven initiatives. These focus on agriculture (soil conservation, dry litter piggery, sakau cultivation); waste management; environmental impact assessment; integrated water resource management; grassland, forest and mangrove rehabilitation; and, climate change mitigation planning. Government and NGO capacity constraints (both human resources and budget) limit the scale at which SLM programs can be sustainably implemented and managed. So whilst core capacity exists, and the policy framework for SLM is well developed (e.g. NBSAP 2002, National Environmental Management Strategy (NEMS) and Strategic Development Plan 2004-2023) currently the funding for on the ground activities is derived primarily through donor projects. Current donor-funded SLM initiatives in the FSM include:

SPREP and SPC assistance with implementing EIA processes; JICA assistance with sustainable waste management planning and recycling; Venezuelan Government (Venezuela Fund) co-financing of GEF SLM pilot projects such

as vegetable production and compost making;PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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SPC/SOPAC (GEF-funded) assistance with IWRM in Pohnpei including watershed demarcation, dry litter piggery, composting, compost toilets and biogas;

USDA NRCS working on soil conservation and providing spatial data; FAO assistance with sustainable agriculture and organic farming; EU-funded Development of Sustainable Agriculture in the Pacific (DSAP) providing seed

and implements to farmers implemented locally by the SPC; GEF-SGP financing of a dry-litter piggery revolving fund on Pohnpei; and USFS technical assistance in for example vegetation mapping and land rehabilitation.

41. GEF intervention in SLM in the FSM has provided a major boost for implementing on the ground SLM. The GEF SLM Medium Size Project (MSP) for “Capacity Building, Policy Development and Mainstreaming of Sustainable Land Management in the FSM” was a 3-year project executed through the OEEM. This project that terminated in 2013 was the major vehicle for SLM implementation over the project period. The project was implemented around seven thematic activity areas: waste management and recycling, community-level plant and tree nursery development, composting and gardening, environmental impact assessment, rehabilitation of degraded forest ecosystems, and environmental awareness and SLM scholarship opportunities. One of the major legacy outcomes of this project is a National Action Plan (NAP) to address SLM issues within the FSM by providing a national framework for SLM implementation. Currently there is a draft NAP that will be completed during the course of 2015.

42. Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation of degraded forest and mangroves is conducted on a limited-scale mainly by State agriculture departments. In 2013 CSP started a restoration project in U Municipality where some 150 trees were planted. There is a recognised need to plant more trees in the degraded land in the Pohnpei watershed. However, CSP has limited funds and limited human recourses. Yap has planted large areas of degraded forest (now grassland/savanna) with leguminous trees. Unfortunately, the tree species most commonly used for rehabilitation, Acacia confusa, is an alien invasive species to Yap. This illustrates a problem common to all of the FSM – the lack of ecologically acceptable rehabilitation protocols. Whilst there has been some vegetation description and analysis in the past, this information is not generally available to or interpreted for current SLM and PA managers. Related to this is the need to accurately map areas in need to rehabilitation for the purposes of planning and costing of rehabilitation.

43. Chuuk had implemented rehabilitation projects in three watershed on Weno and one on Fefan. In the Nefounimas watershed (Weno/Moen) rehabilitation was conducted 2 years ago together with a monitoring of the replanting. This initiative objective’s were to collect and plant out 1000 native plants throughout the watershed, involve youth and women's groups in replanting activity, and GPS plot and monitor on-going work. Chuuk has also conducted mangroves as part of the States climate change adaptation response. In addition to replanting of degraded areas, particularly within mangroves, rehabilitation in Kosrae has also become a key strategy for promoting co-operation between government agencies and community groups.


44. Through partnerships between USFS and State Forestry departments, tree nurseries have been established in all States for the purpose of propagating native species for rehabilitation purposes.

45. Agriculture: Leptospirosis is a debilitating though generally non-lethal bacterial disease that affects humans and animals. In the FSM, the cleaning of piggeries directly into freshwater streams has resulted in the severe contamination of nearly all tested streams in the FSM (see Threats, Root causes and Impacts). The conversion of piggeries to dry litter systems is promoted as a means of eradicating this disease as well as improving the quality and quantity of freshwater ecosystem. Since the mid-1990s the US Department of Agriculture NRCS has been promoting this technology in the FSM. With the use of dry litter technology, water use is greatly reduced, limiting contamination of local water resources. Composting the dry litter and pig manure results in high-value compost and the hot-composting process (>80oC) also kills the Leptospirosis bacteria.

46. A Piggery Advisory Council (PAC) in Pohnpei was started in December 2011 to address the water quality issues from piggeries on Pohnpei. A Strategic Planning Statement was developed in March 2012. In 2012, the Japanese Embassy donated two wood chippers (value US $ 63,000) to Pohnpei, one is based at Pohnpei Agriculture and can be rented for US$ 25 per hour, and the other one is at the COM FSM to be used for dry litter demonstrations. In additional to the dry litter demonstration at COM FSM there are two other dry litter demonstrations in Nett Municipality (funded by the EU through the CSP) and one at Sei Farm also in Nett Municipality. The goals and objectives of the PAC are to provide demonstration sites for dry litter composting, increase public awareness and help address the issue with project funding. The following projects were initiated with the help and support of the PAC:

AusAid funded one dry litter piggery at Sei Farm; SPC/ GEF IWRM project funded a small wood chipper and a small dry litter piggery in

Nett; Embassy of Japan funded two medium-sized wood chippers stationed at the College of

Micronesia and Pohnpei Agriculture; farmers can rent a chipper for $25 per hour; A USDA-designed piggery was constructed at the COM with US Compact funds and is

being used as a demonstration and sells compost locally; PAC assisted with selection criteria for biogas systems that funded by the Embassy of the

People’s Republic of China; and, The PRC has funded in 2013, 15 small biogas units and is planning to fund 13 more in

1014/15.

47. The PAC and others have made the following recommendations:

Install warning signs in highly contaminated streams in populated areas; Continue quarterly sampling on key sites; Screen additional stream systems for human safety; Increase outreach to all school children, NGPs, newspaper, legislators and traditional

leaders through coordinated efforts of PAC partners and members; and, Implement alternative piggery waste/nutrient management systems.


48. To date demonstration projects have only been implemented in Pohnpei. All other States have expressed a strong interesting in implementing water quality monitoring and dry litter piggery technology.

49. Despite a well-established dry litter piggery advancement program in Pohnpei there has been no uptake of this technology amongst farmers. The reasons for this are not well understood although this needs to be addressed if widespread uptake of dry litter piggeries is to be effected. Contributing factors include:

Current land use laws prescribing the location of piggeries in relation to water bodies are not enforced;

Pigs are kept for multiple value purposes including commercial and cultural. Regular mark-driven approaches to influencing farmer management of their piggeries are less-likely to succeed in the FSM;

Level of awareness within communities around water quality issues especially E. coli, Leptospirosis and human health is low; and,

The cultural transition from a traditional agrarian society to a commercial western-style society means that pig owners invest less in their overall agricultural activities (piggeries, vegetable plots and agro-forest) and rely more on income from remittances and salaries.

50. All States have farmer associations, although these are not active due to lack of incentives promoting participation. In 2015 it is planned that the FAO will fund the farmers associations in Pohnpei and Yap to improve quality and quantity of domestic food production and facilitate market access. There is also a possibility that the FAO will fund an agricultural census project in 2015. Farmer associations do present a potential vehicle for mainstreaming SLM concepts and practices to the broader farming community.

51. Invasive Alien Species: All the four states of the FSM has recognized the importance of invasive species, some states are more active than others. Lack of funding limits States implementation of invasive species programs. With the assistance of SPC and SPREP, all four states have Invasive Species Action Plans in place. In Pohnpei, iSTOP (Invasive Species Taskforce of Pohnpei) started in 2000 and some species have been successfully eradicated. This is a very active group and already has their third Strategic Action Plan 2013-2017 in place. In Yap, Imperata cylindrica (Imperata or cogon grass) has been under eradication since 2000 with an estimated 95% being eradicated to date. In Pohnpei Octopus tree has been eradicated and some other selected species - Ivy gourd, Chain of love, Bengal trumpet vine, False Sakau and Feral Pigeons are almost eradicated. In Kosrae and Chuuk, invasive programs are planned but are dormant due to funding constraints.

52. In 1999 the “Grow Low” programme was started by TNC with co-funding from SPREP and UNDP, and it aimed at protecting the Pohnpei watershed. In 2002 the CSP inherited and continued this program. Through awareness programs people are encouraged to move out of the watershed and grow sakau at lower elevations outside of the watershed. Each year CSP targets 20 individuals farming in the upland forest to move to lower elevations in exchange for receiving sakau seedlings. In 2009, lack of funding resulted in a hiatus in the project, but in 2014 the “grow low” activities started again.


53. SLM Monitoring : Monitoring of landscape change in the FSM is that component of SLM that is currently most limited in extent and application, and where local skills to perform this function are most scarce. One important contributor to this situation is that knowledge of and the application of GIS in SLM and PA monitoring and management planning is not widespread or actively mainstreamed. Lack of trained practitioners, lack of software and capable computers; poor access to spatial information and poor quality of existing spatial data; and, the lack of an overarching national policy framework and data standard for spatial data collection and management, all contribute to the status quo. A spatial context or framework for the implementation of SLM does not exist, which limits the ability of National and State governments to asses the scale and extent of SLM problems, plan strategic interventions, and to monitor the impact of interventions.

54. Pohnpei State DEA and CSP (through SOPAC) have conducted training courses and raised awareness around GIS and remote sensing with relevant stakeholders. The skills and knowledge acquired from this training together with additional training specific to addressing land degradation is expected to complement efforts to promote SLM. This includes the capacity to map degraded areas from the effects of clearing, fire, invasive species, soil and coastal erosion, landslides, water storage and others. Emerging from this initiative was the creation of a national GIS forum aimed at promoting communication and co-operation between GIS practitioners in the FSM. This forum had one national meeting in 2013 but since then lack of secretariat and funding have limited formal activity of this forum.

55. Spatial information with which to plan strategic interventions and monitor outcomes is massively constraining for SLM. Prior to 2008, the USFS, NRSC and TNC generated important baseline datasets (e.g. vegetation, reef and soil maps) and have conducted some landscape change analysis (e.g. mapping of landslides or fires, forest clearing on Pohnpei from 1975-2002). More recently the CSP and Pohnpei DEA Division of Forestry have monitored clearing for sakau cultivation in the Pohnpei watershed between 2008-2012. Elsewhere there are no change detection or monitoring programs. NOAA and the USGS through the NRCS have made available 2014 high-resolution satellite imagery for the whole of the FSM, however, few have computers or software able to view this imagery, and there are no plans for interpreting this imagery for the purposes of SLM or INRM.

56. Sustainable SLM Finance: Several novel mechanisms for sustainable SLM financing are currently being piloted in the FSM. In the first project, the MCT is supporting the development of a sustainable financing mechanism at the State and community level for SLM through a Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) scheme around water in Pohnpei. This scheme plan to introduce a source of sustainable funding for SLM implementation at the R2R-scale through the creation of the Nett Watershed Fund. A recent feasibility study demonstrated stakeholder support for the establishment of a water fund to collect revenue for use by landowners to improve watershed management on private land. TNC and CSP surveyed 445 water providers and 305 downstream water users within the Nett Watershed, finding that 99.5% of all respondents would like a PES program to be established22. The willingness of upstream providers to implement SLM practices is high and this scheme

22 Kastl, B., Joseph, E., Obisop, F., & Andreas, R. (n.d.). Payment for Ecosystem Services Feasibility Study: Stakeholder Interest Survey Results and Recommendations. The Nature Conservancy and the Conservation Society of Pohnpei.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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could fund long-term watershed management. The PES scheme proposes that water beneficiaries pay at least $0.005 per gallon of water, which would generate in excess of $400,000 per year to support improved watershed management. A key partner in this PES is the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture that will use a levy from the supply of fresh water to fishing vessels to capitalise the fund. Other suggested sources of SLM and PA funding related to the PES or “Green Fees” that have been successfully implemented in its neighbouring Palau and that are supported by the majority of stakeholders locally include an airport departure fee, Pohnpei Utilities Corporation tariff, tourism levy, and government tax.

57. Another promising financing initiative started in 2014 involving the Awak Youth Organization supported by the MCT and the Conservation Society of Pohnpei established the Piggery Waste Management Revolving Fund. The first of its kind in the FSM, the fund will be used to renovate piggeries to a dry litter system and producing compostable material for sale. Some of the proceeds from these sales will return to the fund. The aim of the revolving fund is to provide accessible finance to enable reduction or elimination contaminants from piggeries into local streams and shoreline.

Institutional context

58. Ownership of land and aquatic areas (up to the outside of the barrier reef) varies between the States. In Kosrae and Pohnpei, land is both privately and State owned, while aquatic areas are managed by the State as public trusts. In Chuuk, most land and aquatic areas are privately owned and acquired through inheritance, gift, or more recently, by purchase. In Yap almost all land and aquatic areas are owned or managed by individual estates and usage is subject to traditional control. These land and aquatic tenure systems have a critical bearing on the strategies and actions required to sustainably manage the biodiversity and ecosystems of the islands. The responsibility for environmental issues is shared between the FSM National government and the individual State government departments. The sharing of responsibility has at times resulted in the duplication of legislation at the State and National levels. It also resulted in gaps in legislation and areas in which the location of responsibility between National and State governments has been less than clear.

59. Each State has made efforts to manage development and natural resources through the creation of land use plans, coastal zone plans, legislation and regulations. The National Government provides guidance and technical assistance to the States when needed and requested on matters related to planning, development, natural resources, fisheries and the environment.

60. Each of the four States enacts their own legislation in line with their powers as provided for in the FSM Constitution. At the national level, the President’s Sustainable Development Council (SDC) is an interdepartmental council chaired by the Vice President and comprises representatives from: Fisheries, Agriculture, and Tourism Units of the Department of Resources and Development; the Department of Finance and Administration; the Department of Justice; the Department of Foreign Affairs; the Department of Health, and Social Affairs; the Department of Education, the Department of Transportation, Communication & Infrastructure; the National Oceanic and Resource Management


Authority (NORMA) and the Office of Environmental Management. A representative each from The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and the Conservation Society of Pohnpei (CSP) also sit on the advisory council. Unfortunately, the SDC have not been active for several years. The functions of the SDC are amongst other things to advise and make recommendations to the President on matters affecting the environmental management and sustainable development of the FSM, with special reference to overseeing global environmental responsibilities and obligations including the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Convention to Combat Desertification and the Framework Convention on Climate Change. The institutional context in the FSM is summarized in Table 3 below. The national level agencies are mainly responsible for policy making, guidance and providing technical assistance and the State-level institutions are responsible for subsidiary legislation development, and monitoring and enforcement.

Table 3. Summary of the key institutions tasked with protected areas and sustainable land management in FSM.

National Chuuk State Pohnpei State Kosrae State Yap StateTerrestrial biodiversity and ecosystems

Department of Resources and Development, Division of Resource Management and Development, Agriculture Program (R&D)

Office of Environment and Emergency Management (OEEM)

Department of Agriculture

Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry

Office of Economic Affairs, Office of Agriculture

Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority, Division of Forestry

Department of Resources and Economic Affairs

Department of Resources and Development, Division of Agriculture and Forestry

Marine biodiversity and ecosystemsDepartment of Resources and Development, Division of Resource Management and Development, Marine Resources Program (R&D)


Department of Marine Resources

Department of Public Safety, Division of Fish and Wildlife

Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture

Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority, Division of Marine Conservation

Department of Resources and Development, Marine Resources Management Division

Environmental quality



Environmental Protection Agency


Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority


Non-governmental organizationsMicronesia Conservation Trust (MCT)

The Nature Conservancy (TNC)

Chuuk Conservation Society (CCS)

Conservation Society of Pohnpei (CSP)

Kosrae Conservation and Safety Organization (KCSO)

Yela Environment Landowners Association (YELA)

Yap Community Action Program (YapCAP)

Yap Institute of Natural Sciences (YINS)

61. Environmental management in FSM is characterized by unclear roles and responsibilities amongst the large group of role-players in the sector (Table 4). There are three levels of government in the FSM sharing legal responsibility for environmental issues - the FSM national government; individual FSM state governments (Pohnpei, Chuuk, Kosrae, and Yap); and, Municipal Governments. NGO’s and CBO’s (e.g. traditional community leadership structures) are also involved in environmental management, but their level of involvement varies between States and they have no legal mandate to proclaim PAs or environmental ordinances in terms of FSM legislation. Each state, as owner of its surrounding natural resources out to 12 nautical miles, manages these resources through policies and plans (e.g., land use plans, coastal zone plans, legislation and regulations).

62. The national government provides on request guidance and technical assistance to the states, and manages the resources from 12 to 200 nautical miles. The national government also signs the multilateral conservation and environment commitments such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The national government applies for and receives funding for enabling activities (e.g. development of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), National Reports, trainings/seminars, policy and legislation development, leveraging and matching contributions). The national government also works with international development partners to set priorities (e.g. SPREP, SPC, FAO, UNDP) 23.

63. The Municipal governments can be involved in PA creation (e.g. issuing ordinances as in Chuuk) and in PA management, i.e. enforcement and monitoring. The clarity or effectiveness of this governance structure on environmental management has, however, proven questionable. For example, jurisdictional and ownership challenges on natural resources can arise between Municipal and State governments (e.g. the Madolenihmw Municipality in Pohnpei, for instance, formed a recent partnership with a foreign company to harvest sea cucumbers on Madolenihmw reefs without first obtaining the proper permits from the state government). The sharing of stewardship responsibility has at times also resulted in duplicate legislation at the Municipal, State and National levels. Additionally, it

23 Rose, J. (2004). Pohnpei Watershed Managment: A Case Study of Legal and Institutional Reform for Co-Management in the Pacific.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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has led to gaps in legislation and enforcement/management due to lack of clear delineation of respective roles and responsibilities at all government levels. In other situations the involvement of Municipalities in PA law enforcement has been beneficial especially through enforcement of municipal environmental ordinances and also municipalities have access to additional resources for PA management. Often the national government does not provide tangible (policy/legislative and funding) support to the states for their PA and conservation laws.

64. Recognizing these difficulties, the FSM National and State leaders, as well as customary chiefs/local communities, have made some effort to streamline their work toward meeting their mutual goal of ensuring effective protection of natural resources. For example, in Pohnpei, CBOs, local NGOs, and State and Municipal officials come together annually to review, discuss, and revise PA management plans throughout the State in a process called the Protected Areas Cross-Site Visit. In addition to government agencies and NGOs, local communities and community organisations are active role-players in managing most of the FSMs PAs thereby creating a diverse web of interrelated actors.

Table 4. Summary of unclear roles and responsibilities of role-players in SLM and PA management.

Role and Responsibility Capacity Description of Unclear Roles/Responsibilities

National

Limited by the Constitution to a coordination and facilitation role in support of State efforts, through the R&D. Provides technical assistance and financial funds as requested by State agencies. Also responsible for coordinating all State activities related to or initiated through foreign assistance. E.g. National Level PAN Coordinator (currently R&D) collects information on PA management from State agencies and reports to MC Chief Executives. Signs international conventions committing the FSM to biodiversity conservation efforts.

R&D is staffed with trained professionals. However limited budget and staff spread thin limits engagement with State agencies and PAs. Organizes and leads trainings, but in the absence of a comprehensive framework for PA management training sometimes overlap with other offerings or are not matched to specific needs. Many commitments at the National level dilutes staff time and activities, for example staff frequently traveling to conferences, meetings related to FSM involvement in international conventions.

Shared responsibility for legal and policy frameworks with States; duplicate legislation at the State and National levels as well as gaps in legislation and enforcement/ management due to lack of clear delineation of respective roles and responsibilities. National government does not always provide tangible (policy/legislative and funding) support to the states for their PA and conservation laws. Supposed to be primary coordinator with international organizations, however sometimes international groups work directly with State agencies.

State

Responsible for the process of legally gazetting PAs and demarcation of PAs through State legislatures. Set policy and draft legislation related to PA management. Provide assistance for PA management, specifically: serve on GIS data collection; interface between the communities, Municipalities, and local NGOs and

Varies per State, in general R&D State agencies lack adequate staff to perform all required duties for PA management (number of staff, presence of qualified and trained staff); budget (money for equipment, travel); and in some cases lack of leadership to fulfill their mandate. Consequence is sporadic and

Shared responsibility for legal and policy frameworks with the National government; duplicate legislation at the State and National levels as well as gaps in legislation. Also responsible for budget allocations for PA management, monitoring and enforcement activities. As shown in table 7.a below many State agencies



the National government; as well as other development and conservation assistance organizations. Attends capacity building trainings with universities, local and international NGOs and community members on socioeconomic, management, and biological assessments and then works with teams to conduct monitoring.State Focal Point PAN coordinators responsible for reporting on PA management to National PAN coordinator.

SLM activities, e.g. food production and processing, dry litter, composting, coconut replanting, invasive species control are conducted by several Departments and NGOs (Collage, Agriculture Office, NRCS.

inefficient engagement with PA management teams on the local level, limited capacity for enforcement, monitoring and evaluations, and public education and other awareness campaigns. In some States, (Pohnpei, Chuuk) local NGOs and development and conservation groups such as RARE step in to varying degrees to take on activities that would have been conducted by the State.

All of the Departments and NGOs have limited capacity and funding, which allows only for limited activities.

involved, creating an unclear delineation of respective roles and responsibilities between State agencies, communities, and NGOs. For example one State agency may be responsible for enforcement, while another for conducting monitoring. Unclear responsibility for enforcement between State and municipalities; local NGOs sometimes draft PA-related legislation/regulation on behalf of State agencies.

There is a need for better sharing and coordination of activities amongst the different Departments and NGOs

Municipality

Lack of a clearly defined consistent role for Municipalities across the FSM. Municipalities can introduce legislation to create new PAs or modify existing ones, but the process does not have to always involve them since various other State agencies can champion PA creating modifications or legislation. Invited by communities/NGOs/State agencies to be involved in PA management, but involvement is not mandated. Can support PA enforcement.

In general, Municipalities have competing priorities that can lead to little interest/support in PA management. This can be due to a lack of consistent leadership in conservation efforts, a lack of general awareness of the value of conservation, and/or an emphasis on economic development that may conflict in the short-term with the goals of PAs. As a consequence, municipalities may not fully buy into PAs.

Municipal structures overlap to varying degrees with traditional community governance structures. In some cases Municipal officials are involved in PA management as they are also active members of the communities surrounding PAs. In other cases Municipal officials may be less involved. Municipalities have economic and development stakes in natural resource management that may conflict with the long-term goals of PAs. Can provide a challenge to State authority such as the case of the Madolenimw Municipal government mentioned earlier.

Community

In the FSM, many PAs are community led/managed. NGOs and State agencies work with community members to start PAs in areas with of identified biological significance. Community leaders involved in generating community buy-in. Work with local NGOs/State agencies to monitor and enforce existing PAs. Continue to be the traditional stewards of the PAs and surrounding

Has limited knowledge and capacity to manage PAs, but in some cases lack incentives and awareness to protect and conserve resources. Leadership capacity and commitment is key to PA creation and long-term management. PA management by community members is mostly unpaid or volunteer.

As most PAs are Community-managed, work with NGOs, municipalities, and State agencies on biological, socioeconomic, and PA management practices monitoring. Can either be formally involved in enforcement as members of state-led enforcement staff or informally, such as in creating community pressure to deter violators. Share responsibility with NGOs/State to raise capacity and



areas. Participate in the drafting of community-driven PA management plans, with input from local NGOs/State.

awareness among own members. The overlaps in responsibilities and initiatives can create confusion as to which group (Community, NGO or State) is responsible for a given task.

Local NGOs

In the absence of strong State engagement (excepting Kosrae), NGOs are the main implementing partners for PA management. Partners with communities and State agencies for management and planning. Partners with State, international/regional development and conservation organizations to deliver technical assistance and secure funding for PA activities including monitoring and enforcement. Key role in progressing the establishment of new PAs and legal status, where applicable. In some cases drafts the legislation on behalf of State actors and reviews/analyses monitoring data and provides management recommendations.

Perhaps you can add invasive species. In Pohnpei CSP has been actively involved in invasive species eradication and control for the last 12 years

Highly committed to their mission. In general, underfunded, understaffed and overextended. Lack of quality training and qualification of staff are questionable in some organizations. Issues securing consistent funding for PA management. Lack of necessary equipment and resources to fulfill mission, but overall functional. Due to limited and unsecured funding some of the NGOs have had to down size staff and activities.

People working on invasive species have been trained on the job although a background in botany or agriculture is missing.

Shares responsibility for PA creation with community leaders and State agencies, can take a lead role in generating community support for PAs (meeting with leadership, building buy-in) instead of the relevant State agency. Provides training/support to both community and State agencies (i.e. workshops on data collection and/or effective PA management strategies). This can create confusion between its role and that of the State.

In Pohnpei there is a lack of coordination between NGO’s and Forestry Division and others.

International and Regional Conservation, Research or Development NGOs and organizations

Work with National government to set priorities and action plans for protecting biodiversity and the environment, provides technical assistance (i.e. UNFCCC; UNEP, UNDP; SPREP; SPC, FAO) administers financing for PA management (MCT); organize regional forums/efforts for conservation (MC Office). Conduct scientific research, biodiversity inventory and monitoring, provide training, organize workshops, facilitate learning networks.

High levels of technical knowledge and PA management expertise. Provides financial resources to the National level, State level, and to local NGOs depending on program/context.

While the National government is responsible for taking the lead in working with these groups, they can and do work directly with States and local NGOs, which can lead to confusion and overlap. The financial and technical support that comes through these groups can involve complicated contracts, requiring multi-year commitments and reporting that can stretch the capacity of recipients.


Capacity Constraints

65. Capacity constraints compounds the challenge of effectively managing PAs, including monitoring, enforcing, and communications to PA stakeholders. They include limited human capacity such as project management and financial management skills; technical knowledge; inadequate financial and readily available resources to respond to both immediate and long-term needs; and a lack of a comprehensive institutional framework for PA management. For example, one of the challenges shared by the states is the bottleneck created by government procurement processes – grants coming through the national and state governments at times do not arrive in a timely manner, holding up activities.

66. Throughout the FSM at the State-level, regulatory agencies have limited capacity to implement fully the existing legislation and policy, monitor, conduct enforcement activities, and provide training to community and local-NGO PA management teams. As described below in Section 4, the State level has significant responsibility and the legal mandate to administer PAs, but in general and in practice many agencies lack adequate staff, resources, and time to fulfil their mandate. Research and anecdotal evidence points to chronic low levels of staff, with limited ability, leadership and political will to fulfil job requirements as a common feature of many State agencies. Compounding this problem is a general issue of staff retention and turnover24. In addition, as a result of donor and Government initiatives, such as the MC, existing staff is tasked with increasing levels of reporting requirements that further stretch limited resources. As an example, the FSM’s State-Wide Assessment and Resource Strategy 2010-2015+ reported “Forestry staff currently finds it difficult to both carry out work under performance based budgets as well as to accommodate these additional programs and visitors.”25

67. Financial resources also limit the engagement of State agencies in PA management. As an example, the MC project document points to limited financial resources as a main impediment to effective State-level management and monitoring of marine resources: “In the islands, the main reason for limited or lack of monitoring is not the lack of policies but the lack of financial resources to obtain and maintain boats, pay for fuel, cover salary and even build the needed skills to effectively carry out monitoring work.

68. Given the overall weak capacity of State agencies in PA management, it has been community and local NGO-led initiatives that have facilitated the management of PAs. Local communities are the groups most directly impacted by PAs and therefore have the highest stake in PAs. As described in Section 4 below, they are responsible for proposing and championing the establishment of PAs. Dahl and Raynor studied Pohnpei’s watershed management and provides a succinct summary of the importance of community management, applicable through the FSM: “Community-based management promises local control over spatially discrete resources that are considered to legitimately "belong" to that community. It is a process of lending the power now vested in juridical-bureaucratic government to much more long-standing socio-political units. Power is not precisely vested in authority; rather, in Pohnpeian fashion, authority—the traditional chiefs—symbolizes the

24 Micronesia Challenge (2010) Sustainable Finance Systems for Island Protected Area Management Project Document. United Nations Environment Programme, Global Environment Facility25 Federated States of Micronesia. (2010). State-Wide Assessment and Resource Strategy 2010-2015+. Federated States of Micronesia and the United States Forest Service.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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return to communities of autonomous, consensus-based decision-making over things of substance. The approach is in a sense an act of reconciliation—it draws on and reconfirms those aspects of both political systems that are considered legitimate.”26

69. A lack of capacity at the community level therefore has a significant impact on effective PA management. Community members involved in PAs are mostly volunteers, and not necessarily trained in project management, conservation, monitoring or enforcement. Where training is available, it is ad hoc and inconsistent, and in some cases there is a lack of clear understanding and commitment to the benefits of PAs, particularly when compared to short-term economic considerations (i.e. building roads or commercial fishing).

70. The lack of financial capacity further inhibits PA management at all levels. As has become apparent in the MC initiative, the most significant barrier facing conservation is the lack of reliable, adequate, and targeted financial resources. As noted in an MC report: “An increase in protected areas and in ecosystem-based management requires an appropriate match in resources. The cost of management is accompanied by numerous opportunity costs, as well as benefits, that involve more than a simple project-based funding cycle. Mainstreaming costs and responsibilities into National and State budgets is also required. This will require close harmonization of policies, as well as development, investment and financial planning processes. Identifying the real costs of conservation and providing the required responses and incentives, as well as providing means to capitalize on benefits, is the principle issue facing the sustainability of the Micronesia Challenge.”27

71. Data collection, storage and analysis has also proven to be a major constraint to PA management. There is limited capacity within State agencies to develop, implement, analyze and communicate conservation related data28. As described above, both the State and the community share responsibility for data collection and monitoring activities with NGOs while academic institutions provide the necessary technical training and database assistance. Preliminary work has already been done, by the MC and others, to establish protocols for monitoring freshwater, mangrove, and upland ecosystems. However, data collection teams from each FSM state need adequate training on each existing protocol as well as any new ones29. In addition to biophysical monitoring, efforts are also initiatives underway to conduct socioeconomic monitoring of PAs. Socioeconomic monitoring involves gathering demographic and economic data from areas surrounding PAs, as well as information about the levels of knowledge within nearby community levels about PAs. Socioeconomic monitoring also gauges the attitudes and perceptions about PAs in the surrounding area. The goal of socioeconomic monitoring is therefore to track social and economic factors, but it too relies on having sufficient and trained personnel to conduct monitoring activities and to interpret the data and develop them into reports and graphics that can be understood at different decision making levels (e.g. community, municipality, state, national and regional).

26 Dahl, C., & Raynor, B. (1996). Community-Based Watershed Planning and Management on the Island of Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia. Asia-Pacific Viewpoint, Vol. 37: 235-253.27 Micronesia Challenge (2010) Sustainable Finance Systems for Island Protected Area Management Project Document. United Nations Environment Programme, Global Environment Facility.28 (2014). Socioeconomic Monitoring in FSM Concept Paper29 MacKenzie, R. A., Giardina, C. P., Cordell, S., Lehman, A., Friday, K., Smith, S., & Fischer, a. C. (2014). Scope of Work for Terrestrial Monitoring: Designing and implementing effective protocols to monitor conditions in designated terrestrial conservation areas under the Micronesia Challenge. US Forest Service Consultants.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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72. Data should be used to inform policy decisions at the State level, influence the distribution of resources, and be used in PA management in general. For example, a recent monitoring activity conducted by The Nature Conservancy resulted in recommendations to increase the size of some PAs to better protect fish species, noting that 15 of the 18 marine PAs studied in Pohnpei were too small to protect key fish species30. However, this lack of general capacity at both the State and community levels to collect and use data remains a significant impediment to implementing effective education and public awareness campaigns, as well as communicating with key policy decision makers to support necessary adaptive management.

73. Capacity constraints affect the Municipal level as well. As there is no clear framework that guides the management of PAs, at times Municipal governments do not enforce PA laws. This can happen because if there is a judgment/fine against a perpetrator and a case is filed at the State level, the state will keep all the fine and not share some of it with the Municipal government, which spent resources building the case and prosecuting it. There is a need to put in place a PA framework that establishes and delineates responsibilities between all stakeholders in order to improve PA management and ensure equity when fees/fines are assessed to violators.

74. While capacity constraints limit the ability of State and communities to effectively manage PAs, both are crucial for the success of conservation initiatives. The State is responsible for gazetting PAs and setting the legal demarcation of PAs. The State also is responsible for creating policy and drafting legislation related to PA management. The State is tasked with providing assistance for PA management (monitoring and enforcement); serving of GIS data groups and interfacing between the community groups, Municipalities, and local NGOs which oversee daily PA management. The State also serves as the main point of contact with the National government as well as other development and conservation assistance organizations. For example, State Focal Point PAN coordinators are responsible for reporting on PA management and progress to the National PAN Coordinator. These are crucial functions that support the ability of communities and local NGOs to create and manage PAs.

75. At the local level, community involvement in PA management is seen as a key factor to PA effectiveness. Initial top-down approaches to conservation and natural resource management throughout FSM were found to be ineffective. Experience within FSM shows that the input and buy-in from the communities that own and steward the land and marine areas in question, with consistent technical support from NGOs and government agencies, is a prerequisite for conservation programming. For example, following the failure of initial State-led efforts to conserve watersheds in Pohnpei, later efforts in the 1990’s: “Centered on the promotion of community-based management regimes which combine local community and traditional institutions with municipal and state governments, through local Watershed Area Management Committees. Initial results of this approach are encouraging, and while the process is long and complex, the outcome is anticipated to be more sustainable than regulatory solutions.”31

30 The Nature Conservancy. (2014). Draft: Review of existing MPAs using fish movement in Pohnpei.31 Worte, O. L. (2010). Fourth Country Report from the Federated States of Micronesia to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. United Nations Support to GEF Eligible CBD Parties (GFL/2328-2716-4A82).PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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76. An additional example of how Micronesian communities are taking an increasingly institutionalized role in resource management comes from the Micronesia Challenge-commissioned study of Piis-Paneu in Chuuk, Advancing the Micronesia Challenge through Community-Based Management of Marine Resources in Piis-Paneu, Chuuk: “In a place where income opportunities are scarce (91% of fishers report no alternative income opportunities), 80% of households in Piis-Paneu depend on the commercial exploitation of marine resources as their main source of income. The traditional management of these marine resources (associated with reef ownership and temporal closures) has eroded over the last decades. Simultaneously, modern marine resource management at the state level has failed to materialize. Under this scenario, the reefs of Piis-Paneu municipality are today de-facto fully open, with virtually no limitations on exploitation. The community of Piis-Paneu is fully aware of the ongoing depletion of their marine resources, and widely recognizes the need for improved management. Most fishers and reef owners see a return to stronger traditional community-led management (including closures and limits to outside fishers) as the best option forward. With the goal of beginning the development of a comprehensive management plan for the marine resources of the municipality, the community has already formed a management plan committee.”32

77. As described in the above example from Chuuk, economic incentives can run contrary to conservation initiatives. In the face of this reality, the lack of capacity at the community and State levels to conduct community education campaigns is significant. Data collected from PAs that can demonstrate the economic and social benefits of biodiversity conservation should be included in public awareness campaigns and in targeted communications to policy makers at the State and National levels.

78. Finally, compounding the lack of capacity at the State and community levels is the overall absence of a clear and consistent institutional framework for PA management. Specifically, there is not a structure in place that orders and links the work of actors at all levels to clarify the workflow between community management organizations, local and regional NGO partners, state Resource and Development (R&D) agencies, the national R&D department, development partners (e.g. Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Program (SPREP), Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), Pacific Islands Forum (PIF)) and international NGOs and donor organizations.

Biodiversity Monitoring

79. There are various monitoring and data collection activities that are on-going in the FSM as part of the country’s MC activities, in particular biological monitoring. Additional examples not already cited include fish count studies in the States33, commercial coral-reef fisheries studies34, rapid ecological assessments of biodiversity and status covering parts of the

32 Cuetos-Bueno, J. (2012). Advancing the Micronesia Challenge through Community-Based Management of Marine Resources in Piis-Paneu, Chuuk. Saipan: Pacific Marine Resources Institute.33 Allen, G. R. (2005). Final Report: Reef Fishes of Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia. The Conservation Society of Pohnpei; Allen, G. R. (2007). Final Report: Reef Fishes of Yap, Federated States of Micronesia.34 Houk, P., Rhodes, K., Cuetos-Bueno, J., Lindfield, S., Fread, V., & McIlwain, a. J. (2012). Commercial Coral Reef Fisheries Across Micronesia: A Need for Improving Management. Coral Reefs, Vol. 31: 13-26.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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overall marine and terrestrial ecosystems35, and specific studies of certain species36. By looking at the individual studies throughout the region, general conclusions can be drawn, as was done in 2009 for the Blueprint for Biodiversity Conservation in the FSM, which identified ABS sites throughout the country. For example, through the standard monitoring datasets there are some data for the humphead or Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus) with approximately 20 sites across surveyed across the FSM37. However, the measurement techniques used in these studies are not geared for sampling rare species, but rather looked at all food/functional fish and an assessment of the ecosystem in general. Thus, while there is some data for a baseline of this particular species, a focused assessment of humphead wrasses would be needed in order to set a scientifically rigorous baseline.

80. In general there is not a comprehensive overall picture of the FSM’s biodiversity, including user-friendly information about what it is, where it is located, what is endemic, what is its current status and International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) threat status. As described in Section 9, part of this problem is related to the fact that information is not systematically collected and analysed at a state or national level. Given this lack of data, more work needs to be done before the R2R project can determine what constitutes suitable biological indicators for each R2R ecosystem component (i.e. number of humphead wrasses in reefs, mangrove crabs in mangroves, bird species in forests, and goby fish in freshwater). This work should be carried out during the first year of the project and involve technical specialists and scientists. Additionally the framework for R2R should include to the extent possible the MC indicators (see Section 8) already being used to track progress towards MC goals. By including the MC indicators as well as additional indicators for specific species in each R2R ecosystem, the resulting monitoring and evaluations framework would include a more comprehensive set of indicators.

Protected Area Finance

81. Financing the management of PAs in the FSM, and throughout the Micronesia region is a challenge. In order to meet this challenge efforts through the MC are already underway, and should be supported by the R2R project for the FSM in particular. For the MC, signatory countries have already developed a Regional Sustainable Finance Plan which includes the projected costs and funding plans to meet the MC target of effectively conserving at least 30% of the near-shore marine and 20% of the terrestrial resources across the region by 202038. The MC Regional Sustainable Finance Plan is derived from the Sustainable Finance Plans of all five MC jurisdictions, including the FSM. It was endorsed by the Micronesia Chief Executives at their March 2012 Summit. In general, the financing plans for the region include funding for activities and endowments from Government budgets as well as international donor and project money gathered through fund raising activities and proposals. In order to ensure sustainability there has been a focus on building endowments,

35 Turak, E., & DeVantier, L. (2005). Reef-building corals and coral communities of Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia: Rapid ecological assessment of biodiversity and status. Conservation Society of Pohnpei.36 Houk, P., Golbuu, Y., Gorong, B., Gorong, T., & Fillmed, C. (2013). Watershed discharge patterns, secondary consumer abundances, and seagrass habitat condition in Yap, Micronesia. Marine Pollution Bulletin, Vol 71, Issues 1-2: 209-215.37 Peter Houk pers. comm.38 Micronesia Challenge Regional Coordination Office (Updated 2012). Funding the Micronesia Challenge: A Regional Plan for Sustainable Finance, Part 2 of 3 of the Micronesia Challenge's Sustainable Finance Project. The Nature Conservancy and the Micronesia Conservation Trust.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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that once fully endowed can perpetually contribute to the funds available to National and State PA management activities.

82. As stated above, each MC jurisdiction is responsible for their specific Sustainable Finance Plan. Individual country plans are required that reflect individual country context and PA management strategies and requirements, and how these are translated into country-specific MC activities. In order to assist the FSM to develop and implement their own Sustainable Finance Plan, the UNEP GEF launched the “Micronesia Challenge: Sustainable Finance Systems for Protected Area Management in ‘Micronesia Challenge’ States” project in 2011. This project was specifically designed to support the FSM (as well as the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Republic of Palau) to establish sustainable finance systems and policies by 2015 to ensure sufficient resources required to abate threats to marine and terrestrial biodiversity and effectively manage each protected area.

83. To date, significant progress has been made by the Project, including the creation of a Sustainable Finance Plan for the FSM that details the amount of money anticipated through government budgets, and the amount of government and additional funding needed to create an endowment to cover budget shortfalls. The FSM has begun taking steps to meet its environmental and financial goals for the Micronesia Challenge, but needs to raise at least $3.6M per year over the next seven years to ensure this success. The R2R project should wherever possible support efforts towards meeting the goals of the existing FSM sustainable finance plan. Below is a summary of the FSM’s progress towards meeting its financing goals as of June 2014.

84. FSM’s estimated annual budget to achieve the MC conservation goals is $4.4 million per year, based on annual budgets estimated by each of FSM’s four states – Chuuk ($1.5M), Kosrae ($0.5M), Pohnpei ($1.3M) and Yap ($0.7M) – plus an additional $0.4M per year for national coordination costs. FSM estimates that it has funding for nearly $1.0M of its current expenses. The MC Sustainable Finance Plan identified another $1.0M in potential annual funding, including U.S. Compact Environment Sector Grant Funding ($460K), Visitors Fees or Fishing Licenses ($400K), and grants from Micronesia Conservation Trust ($100K), Sustainable Land Management Projects ($60K), and the U.N. Global Environment Facility’s Small Grants Program ($60K). Finally, the project designated an additional $668K in expenses (including the $0.4M per year for national coordination costs) as “non-endowment” funding. Therefore, FSM faces a $1.6M remaining gap per year for the activities it deems necessary to achieve effective conservation under the Micronesia Challenge (Figure 1).

85. The MC Sustainable Finance Plan assumes that this $1.6M funding gap will be met by raising a $33M endowment fund for FSM that can disburse 5% of the fund per year to support FSM’s conservation activities (Figure 2). FSM has already begun building this endowment, with pledges of $1M each from The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and Conservation International (CI). TNC contributed $0.5M of its pledge in 2010 to match a $1.68M grant from the UN Global Environment Facility, and another $0.5M in 2013 to match a $250K contribution from the FSM government.


86. Kosrae’s Yela Reserve established a $520K endowment in 2014, bringing FSM’s total endowment to more than $4.1M. Conservation International is expected to contribute its $1M pledge this year. FSM can reach the endowment’s $33M goal by raising $3.6M per year from 2014 to 2020. One way to meet this fundraising goal would be for FSM to contribute $1.2M per year from fisheries licensing revenues and find matching donations for the additional $2.4M per year (Figures 2 and 3).

87. The MC Fundraising Analysis identifies and prioritizes potential funding sources for nearly $100M in funding over the next 10 years (Figure 4). Many of these funding sources would be targeted to fund conservation across multiple MC jurisdictions (Guam, CNMI, FSM, Palau and RMI). This will require planning between the MC jurisdictions to approach these potential donors in a coordinated fashion. Furthermore, many funding opportunities have tight deadlines. The MC Steering Committee should therefore act quickly to review these opportunities, coordinate with the appropriate partners, and begin the necessary actions to take advantage of these funding opportunities.

88. The Micronesia Challenge has already laid impressive groundwork to achieve its conservation and financial goals, and the MC Sustainable Finance project has shown how FSM can build an endowment to support these goals. There are more than enough funds available to build FSM’s MC endowment. The next step is to accelerate FSM’s efforts to raise these funds, and the R2R project should be a partner in this effort.

89. PES offers novel mechanisms to raise ring-fenceed SLM and PA finance. The nascent Nett watershed PES will provide valuable practical insights into the viability of such schemes in the FSM. The R2R project through The Making the Case component should explore and support additional feasibility studies throughout the FSM, and work with OEEM, R&D and other government agencies to identify and adopt PES schemes for SLM and PAs where appropriate.

Legislative framework - SLM

90. FSM has extensive National and State legislation dealing to environmental management (summarized in Annex 5: Summary of Environmental Legislation). Due to the government structure of the federation with a National Government and four semi-autonomous State governments, each of the four States have their own constitutions, that mirror a greater or lesser degree the national constitution. This structure makes it a prerogative of each State to enact their own legislation in line with their powers as mentioned in the FSM constitution in terms of sustainable development, land management, and conservation. This overarching constitution, for example, clarifies the National and State Government’s roles in implementing the FSM’s obligations under the UNCCD. The primary responsibility for land management, natural resource management, and development planning rests with the four individual States of the FSM. The States take the lead role in ensuring that development is avoided in vulnerable areas and ensuring critical natural systems are protected. Although there is still much to be done, most of the States have made initial efforts to guide sustainable development through the creation of:


Land Use Plans; Coastal Zone Plans; National Forest Management Agriculture Strategic Action Plans

91. In 1992 the FSM Environmental Management and Sustainable Development Council (SDC) was established. The SDC is an interdepartmental and cross-sectoral advisory board established by the President and chaired by the Vice President of the nation. It is comprised of members from the FSMGO offices of DEA (Fisheries, Agriculture, Tourism and Sustainable Development Units), DEHSA, DFA, DOFA, DOJ, TC&I NORMA, Weather Services, and representatives of the COM-FSM, TNC, and the Conservation Society of Pohnpei (CSP). This highlights FSMs commitment to addressing issues concerning sustainable land management. The SDC, however, has not been active for many years.

92. The National Environmental Management Strategies (NEMS) – the nation’s first documented environmental strategy – were formulated and launched in 1993 providing a national framework for the FSM to adopt sustainable approaches in addressing several key environmental issues which pose pressing threats to sustainable land management. It adopted a holistic approach in creating cooperation between government agencies to work together towards managing the priority SLM issues. Political commitment was necessary through the development of these policies which focused on the following 4 major strategies in order to promote sustainable economic growth:

Integrate environmental considerations in economic development; Improve environmental awareness and education; Manage and protect natural resources; and Improve waste management and pollution control.

93. The institutional structure for environmental and natural resource management, including the supporting legislation and regulations, is complex given the mix of three levels of government as well as traditional systems. NGOs focused on conservation and environmental protection is in all four states and there is a trend toward integration of efforts of these groups with traditional leadership and government agencies dealing with natural resources. There is also a distinct emerging trend of community-based organizations becoming involved in the various aspects of resource management. Over the last few years both national and state governments have made a substantial effort to more fully involve NGOs in policy development and projects. This involvement does not extent to financial support for NGO’s who still rely mostly on support from foreign donors.

94. FSM is committed to improving environmental legislation, strengthening institutions and increasing capacity building for those agencies (both governmental and non-governmental) responsible for the environment, natural resources and sustainable development. It is also committed to increased community awareness, gender equality, and overall increased actions and commitments for Agenda 21 implementation.


95. There are several gaps preventing the existing legislation from being effectively enforced39:

Many laws are from the pre-1986 Trust Territory times and some of the laws are not relevant any longer. Decade-old Trust Territory pronouncements may not adequately reflect new FSM environmental concerns.”

Lack of enforcement of legislations due to several reasons, e.g. conflict with traditional Pohnpein resources use and authority, (family, friends, community) lack of resources human and financial, lack of trained enforcement officers.

Lack of clarity as to the roles and responsibilities of each of the agencies involvement in the implementation and enforcement.

Lack of communication and cooperation between law enforcement officers and Attorneys General Office.

Lack of public awareness on resource management, e.g. lack of consequences as a result of miss use of resources.

Lack of certainty regarding the appropriate legislative location for environmental management controls have created both under and over-regulation. In some instances, two sets of very similar regulatory instruments control the same behaviour, one at the National and one at the State level. In other instances, no law is created, or no jurisdiction enforces the law.

Lack of Joint Opinion on National-State Environmental Responsibilities between National and State Government under the FSM Constitution.

Lack of an interdisciplinary advisory body, the former Environment Protection Board has not been active for the last 20 years.

Lack of regulations, in many cases regulations were never put in place.

96. FSM strengthens in favour of implementing SLM and PA legislation:

FSM has a legal system for National and State Government in place. All four states have a Governments, NGOs and CBOs in place which are committed to

resource management There is also a distinct emerging trend of community-based organizations becoming

involved in the various aspects of resource management. Over the last few years both national and state governments have made a substantial

effort to more fully involve NGOs in policy development and projects.

Legislative framework - PAs

97. As described in Institutional context section above, PA management in the FSM involves a complex web of actors at National, State, and Municipal levels, with community actors and local NGOs working directly on PA management. This inter-related web, while involving all stakeholders in PA management, suffers from the lack of a comprehensive institutional framework for PA management. Such a framework would clarify the role of each actor at all levels, delineate responsibility, organize the work of stakeholders, and pave the way for more efficient communication and management. Additionally, an institutional framework

39 Rose, J. 2009. Environmental Law in the Federated States of Micronesia: A Review. http://www.sprep.org/att/irc/ecopies/countries/fsm/62.pdfPRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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would help connect PAs creating greater efficiencies. This is also a requirement for the MC endowment fund earnings disbursement to the states. Without a clear framework that identifies all the key stakeholders, their responsibilities, and roles, the donors will not agree to the disbursement of their funds.

98. While PAs are growing in number, less has been done at the local and State level to ensure their connectivity. In order to be most effective, PAs should be connected so that each jurisdiction, as well as the FSM, can benefit from a ‘network’ structure. For example, high connectivity can improve recovery times for coral reefs following disturbances, and best adapt the region for the expected consequences of climate change (i.e. higher disturbance frequencies)40. The Micronesia Challenge project supports PANs across the region. The MC project document includes a succinct summary as to why this is important: “This strategy recognizes that in Micronesia, grassroots engagement, spearheaded through the PAN Networks, must bring institutional strengthening, help develop finance and project management skills including granting and reporting procedures, and must encourage and coordinate conservation efforts over time41.

99. The institutional framework for FSM PA management should also organize and clarify the process for a PA to be established, and for its inclusion in PANs. In order to join a PAN, community and NGO management teams would have to demonstrate that the PA meets the set of minimum standards and criteria before its inclusion in State level PANs. In Palau, where PANs are already established, the criteria incudes42:

Contribution to achieving an explicit and quantitative conservation target or goal for representing one or more biodiversity feature in a PA (e.g. 20% of the terrestrial area of FSM to be included in PAs)

Ecological process targets or goals such as minimum patch size, association of critical habitats, presence of keystone species or habitats or sites; connectivity of habitats, buffering of core conservation zone;

Ecological condition/state/integrity of habitats. Resilience criteria, resistant communities, bleaching resistant communities, representative

habitats, viability, water quality, functional group representation; Economic criteria, such as extractive, non-extractive, eco-system services value; Social criteria, such as subsistence resource usage, cultural, historical, recreation,

aesthetics, research, education; Threats, such as invasive species, existing human impacts, potential development impacts,

pathogens; Feasibility, such as whether the area is an established protected area, has local support,

has management capacity, funding, monitoring, enforcement, and partnership; and, Biogeographic significance, such as local, national, regional, and global significance.

100. Within the FSM, the individual States are working on codifying their own processes and criteria for PA establishment, which can be expanded to include institutionalizing PANs. Preliminary work has begun in the states to establish PAN standards and criteria, the R2R

40 Turak, E., & DeVantier, L. (2005). Reef-building corals and coral communities of Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia: Rapid ecological assessment of biodiversity and status. Conservation Society of Pohnpei.41 Micronesia Challenge: Sustainable Finance Systems for Island Protected Area Management Project Document, 2010, p. 2842 Ministry of Resources and Development. (2007). Protected Areas Network Regulations. The Republic of Palau. p5&6PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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project should support it by providing technical assistance and reviews of State standards/criteria, and encourage all States to work towards adopting a national set of standards.

101. The institutional framework should also include clear standards for community management. Once these standards are in place, a functioning institutional framework would allow for the development of a consistent process for PANs to obtain funding from the Micronesia Challenge endowment for management activities by evaluating PA applications for funding against clear criteria. Palau has already established a PAN institutional framework that includes a PAN Fund, but given the constitutional structure of the FSM and the limited ability of the country to collect Resource/Green Fees, it might make more sense to support the establishment of a modified version to provide access to Micronesia Challenge endowment funding. This can be based on the implementation of the GEF Small Grants Program in the country. This funding framework consists of the following actors and could work as follows:

The community and NGO management teams for PAs identify needs and develop requests for funding from the endowment. The community with input from the NGO develops a funding application and applies for funding to a State PAN coordinator.

The State PAN coordinator is responsible for reviewing the application and the status of PA management against the established criteria. If the application meets the minimum requirements, the State agent would either provide technical assistance/support to improve the application or management to meet the basic criteria and/or funnel the application to a separate PAN National focal group for the technical and final assessment.

The PAN National focal group (consisting of a mix of Government, academia and NGO conservation specialists) receives applications from State PAN coordinators and conducts the final review to approve or deny applications for funding. If approved, the PAN National focal group would direct the Micronesia Conservation Trust to release the funding to the community/NGO PA management group.

The Micronesia Conservation Trust would act as a repository for PA management financing from the Micronesia Challenge endowment fund. When directed by the PAN National focal group, the MCT would release endowment funds for approved community/NGO PA management improvement projects.

102. This financing structure would organize access for PA managers to the Micronesia Challenge endowment funds, which are intended to be in perpetuity. This is not the only source of funding for PAs; as described in detail in Section 1 above, there are also National and State budget allocations as well as other international development and conservation organization funding discussed in Section 7 below (such as the R2R project itself). A strong institutional framework for PA management would help organize the actions of those involved for financing PA management activities, and clarify for PA management teams the process for gaining access to available funding streams.

103. Currently in the FSM, the National government shares responsibility for biodiversity conservation and other environmental issues with each of the four FSM State governments. Per the constitution of the FSM, each State is responsible for the management of its own natural resources, out to 12 nautical miles. Each State has the authority to govern land and


water area ownership. Land ownership regimes also vary within the States, leading to different strategies for the creation, expansion, and monitoring of PAs:

104. In Kosrae and Pohnpei, land is both privately and State owned, while aquatic areas are managed by the State as public trusts. In Chuuk, most land and aquatic areas are privately owned and acquired through inheritance, gift or, recently, by purchase. In Yap, almost all land and aquatic areas are owned or managed by individual estates and usage is subject to traditional control43.

105. The role of the National government is limited to providing guidance and technical assistance to the States upon request, and manages the resources from 12 to 200 nautical miles. As described above in Section 4, Municipalities are also involved in natural resource management and in some cases can issue ordinances to recognize new PAs.

106. There is an urgent need for harmonious and comprehensive nationwide PA legislation in the FSM. Work is underway to streamline the complex legal environment. National government is considering drafting either National Protected Areas Network (PAN) Legislation, or a more simplified PAN policy framework to provide clear guidance to the States. At the State level, Kosrae has already passed a protected area network law, on which Yap and Chuuk’s State legislatures are formulating and modelling their policies and legislation. Pohnpei State, its Watershed and Wildlife legislation already includes legal elements for the establishment of a PAN. However, the R2R project and the MC should continue supporting this work at all levels to ensure that future legislation mitigates the problems of unclear and overlapping legal frameworks as well as ensuring that all State PA legislation meets a common set of criteria. Most importantly, the legal review of State PA legislation should ensure that traditional PA structures are recognized and supported; that stewardship or conservation easements are included; and, that provision for biodiversity offset contributions to the PAN are enabled.

107. The creation of an institutional framework of PA management should also take into consideration streamlining and clarifying the roles and responsibilities for actors involved in enforcement, monitoring and evaluation, and education/public awareness campaigns. By setting up clear standards for who is involved and at what level for these crucial PA management activities, the institutional framework would clarify much of the opacity that exists.

Policy

108. There are several national planning policy documents relevant to SLM and PA management in the FSM that the R2R Project contributes towards achieving their goals (Table 5). This project is fully aligned with FSM Strategic Development Plan, specifically to “protect, conserve, and sustainably manage a full and functional representation of marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems”. The NBSAP expresses the nations commitment to preserve, conserve and sustainably manage the biodiversity of the FSM is real and is of utmost

43 Federated States of Micronesia. (2010). State-Wide Assessment and Resource Strategy 2010-2015+. Federated States of Micronesia and the United States Forest Service. p11PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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importance for the sustainable development of the nation. This is embodied in the NBSAP vision for the nation:

“The FSM will have more extensive, diverse, and higher quality of marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems, which meet human needs and aspirations fairly, preserve and utilize

traditional knowledge and practices, and fulfill the ecosystem functions necessary for all life on Earth”

109. Strategic Themes 1 of the NBSAP specifically focuses on Ecosystem Management with the Strategic Goal being a full representation of FSMs marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems are protected, conserved, and sustainably managed, including selected areas designated for total protection. This goal is reflected in the MC PA goals - PA area outcomes from the R2R project contribute towards achieving the MC goals for FSM of conserving 20% terrestrial and 30% marine ecosystems. Strategic Theme 2 of the NBSAP - Species Management – specifies that FSMs native, endemic, threatened, and traditionally important species are protected and used sustainably for the benefit of future generations of the people of the FSM and the global community. Strategic Theme on Agrobiodiversity focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of Agrobiodiversity as it contributes to the nation’s development and the future food security of the FSM. Strategic Theme 8 on Human Resources and Institutional Development has to goal that all citizens, residents, and institutions of the nation are aware of the importance of biodiversity and have the technical knowledge, skills, and capability to conserve all biodiversity within the nation. Strategic Theme covering Resource Owners identifies that traditional resource owners and communities be fully involved in the protection, conservation, preservation, and sustainable use of the nation’s biodiversity. Lastly, Strategic Theme 10 on Mainstreaming Biodiversity has the goal that all economic and social activities of the FSM take full account of impacts on and fully consider sustainability of biodiversity.

Table 5. Policy strategic planning documents relevant to SLM and PA management in FSM.

Name of Policy Document

FSM National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) 2002National Environmental Management Strategy (NEMS)FSM Agriculture Policy 2012-2016FSM Strategic Development Plan 2004-2023FSM Trade Policy, January 2011FSM Agriculture Policy 2012-2016Nationwide Integrated Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change Policy 2013.The National Plan of Action for Nutrition 2007-2012FSM National Solids Waste Management Strategy (NSWMS) 2010-2014FSM State-Wide (Forest) Assessment and Resource Strategy 2010 – 2015 +Climate Change in the FSM 2010


THREATS, ROOT CAUSES AND IMPACTS

110. Conversion and Degradation of Natural Habitat and Ecosystems : Deforestation and fragmentation of forests in the form of forest clearance to allow for urbanization, infrastructure development, home building, in-filling, commercial agricultural expansion, and small-scale logging for timber and firewood use has been identified as one of the main forces behind land degradation44. The Lowland forests of Pohnpei have been heavily disturbed and transformed in recent decades. Analysis of aerial photography from Pohnpei in 1975, 1995 and 2002 of the island shows a significant loss of intact forest: a reduction from 15,008 ha (42% of island land area) to 4,480 ha (13%) during the 27 year period. No comparable statistics are available for the other High Islands. In the absence of a systematic land-cover change analysis and vegetation survey of the High Islands these figures are estimates and probably underrepresent the true picture on the ground.

111. Unsustainable agriculture practices primarily clearing of large trees that hold soil and regulate water flows, in favour of cash cropping does provide economic relief, but it often leads to large areas of degraded land, particularly in the steep, high elevation and rainfall areas of watersheds. Here soils are particularly sensitive to erosion. Pohnpei, and to a lesser extent Kosrae, face serious ecological damage due to the large scale planting of sakau (Kava) in areas that have been cleared of forest cover. The impact of human-mediated burning of native grassland or savanna ecosystems in Yap has not been well studied but it is accepted that fire is not part of the original ecology of the island.

112. Today, clearing of native forest is largely to plant sakau (kava or Piper methysticum). On Chuuk, the only semi-original forest remaining is scattered in tiny remnants. Landslides followed by invasive alien species have had a catastrophic impact on Chuuk’s forests. In all States, swidden farming (shifting slash-and-burn agriculture) of nutrient-demanding crops such as yams by early settlers led to large scale land clearing and nutrient depletion and the consequent spread of savannah. This is exacerbated by the slash-and-burn cultivation currently practiced in the Yap High Islands. The Yap High Islands also experience extensive wildfires during dry periods and extreme wildfires that burn valuable native forest in years with ENSO-related droughts. On two occasions in the last 30 years, at least 22% of Yap has been burnt during dry periods.

113. Mangrove forests have been depleted through expansion of coastal infrastructure; increased settlements in littoral areas; and, the harvest of trees for timber and firewood. Figures are not available for loss of mangroves in FSM due to coastal infrastructure but based on global figures this are significant. Rates of deforestation/conversion of mangroves in FSM are probably lower than elsewhere in SE Asia as there is no industrial-scale targeting of mangrove habitat (e.g. aquaculture) present in FSM. Over the past 20 years the availability of large amounts of funding for infrastructure improvements under the Compact of Free Association with the U.S. has led to increased dredging, road construction and land clearing. For example, in fiscal year 2007, $6.1 million was allocated to the Infrastructure Sector45. Around all settlements mangroves are the primary sites for refuse landfills, which

44 Christine Ogura, C. (2003). Watershed Management on Pohnpei: Lessons for Enhanced Collaboration. Thesis completed for the School of Natural Resources & Environment, University of Michigan, April 2003. (downloaded from: http://www.snre.umich.edu/ecomgt//pubs/pohnpei.htm)45 http://www.doi.gov/oia/Firstpginfo/compactgrants/index.htmlPRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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are subsequently used as land for development. Sedimentation from land-based activities, as well as agriculture, has contributed to the degradation of near-shore coral reef ecosystems in all four states. The overall harvest rate (for firewood) of mangroves on Kosrae for the past 10 years was 10%, but rates varied widely among the different parts of the island46. The harvesting rates of mangroves are thought to be higher of the main islands of Pohnpei and Chuuk, due to their higher human population. The degradation of freshwater wetlands has been severe throughout the federation, due mainly to deforestation and to siltation from unsustainable land use, salinity intrusion, and filling in of wetland areas for home and agricultural development. The traditional practice of converting wetland vegetation in swamp forests for taro cultivation has also affected wetlands in the moist rainforests.

114. Overexploitation and Unsustainable Harvesting of Biological Resources : Overfishing and overhunting has been identified as the most urgent and critical threat across marine and terrestrial areas of interest for conservation in all the states47. This is exacerbated by destructive and unsustainable fishing methods e.g. dynamite, chlorine, fish poisoning with the plant (Derris elliptica), the use of small mesh gillnets; and the over exploitation of fish aggregation spawning sites. Intense population growth on the main island of Chuuk since the 1960s, destructive fishing practices and a vast export market have placed increasing pressure on Chuuk’s natural resources, with roughly 2,000 – 4,000 mt/year of coastal resource harvested. There is currently a very active regional fresh fish trade with most fish being exported to Micronesian communities based in Guam/Saipan and Hawaii. Quantifying the extent, and social and economic benefits of this trade is important for demonstrating the value of this trade to national government and the need to invest in managing the resources. Fish populations in Kosrae are experiencing overexploitation and in Yap localized overfishing of certain species and areas occur, especially around the main island. On Pohnpei, due to a substantial local commercial market for coastal marine products and subsistence use, at least 600 mt of fish is caught annually. Based on per capita consumption estimates, Pohnpei is now fishing nearly 1.5 times (150%) of its sustainable productive capacity48. Particularly affected by unsustainable fishing and marine/coastal harvesting practices are Green Bumphead Parrotfish (Bolbometopon muricatum), Humphead Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), Giant Clam (Tridacna gigas), which has been almost eliminated in some parts of the FSM, Mangrove Crab (Scylla serrata), Black-lipped mother-of-pearl oyster (Pinctada margaritifera), Lobster (Panulinus sp.), Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas), Coconut Crab (Birgus latro) and Sea Cucumbers. For example, in a 2005 survey undertaken in Kosrae not one commercial valuable grouper of any species was seen in 75 dives49. The survey also recorded only three Bumphead Parrotfish and seven Humphead Wrasse. The overall decline in reef fish stocks will have long-term impacts on food security and trade.

46 Hauff, R.D., Enel, K.C., and Jack, J. 2006. Tracking Human Disturbance in Mangroves: Estimating Harvest Rates on a Micronesian Island. Wetlands Ecology and Management.47 The Nature Conservancy, 2003. A Blueprint for Conserving the Biodiversity of the Federal State of Micronesia. Pohnpei, FSM.48 Rhodes, K.L., Warren-Rhodes, K., Houk, P., Cuetos-Bueno, J., Fong, Q and Hoot, W. 2011. An Interdisciplinary Study of Market Forces and Nearshore Fisheries Management in Micronesia. A Report of the Marine Program of the Asia Pacific Region, The Nature Conservancy. Report No 6/11. 120 pp.49 Hasurmai, M., E. Joseph, S. Palik, and K. Rikim, 2005. The State of Coral Reef Ecosystems of the Federated States of Micronesia. p.387-398 in Waddell, J. (ed.), 2005. The State of Coral Reef Ecosystems of the United States and Pacific Freely Associated States: 2005. NOAA Technical Memorandum NOS NCCOS 11. NOAA/NCCOS Center for Coastal Monitoring and Assessment’s Biogeography Team. Silver Spring, MD. 522 pp.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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115. Several terrestrial bird species are hunted for recreational or home use purposes. Excessive hunting, especially of the Micronesian imperial pigeon (Ducula oceanica, Near-threatened) and the Caroline Islands ground dove (Gallicolumba kubaryi, Endemic, Vulnerable) has significantly reduced the populations of these species. Flying foxes are not hunted in FSM as they are in some other Pacific States. The extent of hunting and its impact on populations and species survival has not been assessed. Current biodiversity monitoring programs in FSM are generally focused only on the marine environment.

116. Pollution: Farm waste is a major cause of land and water pollution, in particular waste from pigs. Most municipalities have instituted regulations requiring pig farmers to confine their animals. It is estimated that on the island of Pohnpei alone there are more than 3,000 piggeries. Raising pigs in pens requires farmers to clean the pens daily. The most common method of cleaning is with water. As the piggeries do not have an associated waste management system, the contaminated water enters fresh water creeks and lagoons. This has made many aquatic habitats unsuitable for human use and has had negative biodiversity impacts on freshwater species, including several endemic species that need clean, clear water. Pollution of lagoons and estuaries has in turn severely affected the fishing industry in several lagoons. Corals are very sensitive and usually grow in waters that are low in nutrients. A major contributor to lagoon pollution is the widespread practice of using garbage as landfill material on the edges of mangrove forests. The impact of toxic leachate from these dumps on lagoon ecology has not been assessed. Solid waste management at the municipal level is a very high priority and there are currently projects funded by JICA, SPREP and ADB addressing these issues.

117. Water pollution primarily from piggeries has significant impacts to water quality, public health and the environment, with a 2013 study in Pohnpei showing 44 of the 63 major streams on the island having greater than 579 ppm of coliform bacteria, a standard set by the Environmental Protection Agency as safe for swimming; no streams were considered safe for drinking. Contaminant such as leptospirosis, E. coli, salmonella and cholera are also potential threats in the local streams.

118. Leptospirosis testing on pigs was done in 1995 and 1996. The study concluded that Leptospirosis is a serious health threat in Pohnpei, with approximately 1 in 4 people with fever and flu-like symptoms as having a probable case of Leptospirosis; in severe cases, infected people can die. It is also carried in the urine of dogs and rats. Due to this serious disease and environmental contamination, prevention is most important and reason to keep animal waste runoff away from water sources. Also Chuuk, Yap and Kosrae have Leptospirosis but there are no statistics.

119. Spread of alien invasive species : Alien animal and plant species that have either been deliberately or accidentally introduced in the country threaten native species by preying on, smothering or out competing them. Past accidental and intentional introduction of alien species have led to the e extinction of some endemic species in the FSM. The small ecosystem nature of the Micronesian islands makes them highly susceptible to the impacts of invasive plants and animals. In the last 150 years, over 457 new plants and animals have


been introduced to the islands of the FSM50. The percentage of introduced plants varies between the states with introduced species comprising 22% in Kosrae, 40% in Pohnpei, 37% in Chuuk and 39% in Yap of plant species51. Many openings in the forests (from sakau, fires, landslides, etc.) provide opportunities for aggressive vines such as the native Merremia peltata or alien invasive Mile-a-minute (Mikania micrantha) to establish themselves, smothering trees and preventing seedlings and saplings from growing.

120. Institution threats related to alien species are inadequate biosecurity enforcement in FSM to prevent importation of new potential alien invasive species and lack of funding for invasive species eradication and control, especially bio-control research. Initiatives such as the Invasive Species Taskforce of Pohnpei (iSTOP) are an example of a collaborative effort to build awareness and cooperation across sectors in the fight against alien species spread.

121. Unplanned development includes the building of seawalls without any clear guidelines, or research into ecologically-based alternatives, the filling in of mangrove forests for construction purposes, for dumping garbage and solid waste, or for commercial piggery development, road construction in steep terrain, watersheds, or through ecologically sensitive wetlands or shore areas, and the activities of mining and dredging. These activities occur to some degree across all of the FSM states. The needs of infrastructure and a more western lifestyle have led to increased exploitation of land-based aggregate materials and/or mining activities of scoria materials for construction purposes. Efforts are needed to help build the capacity to ensure that all developments adhere to quality environmental principles and permitting processes, and that destructive attempts are effectively enforced. Although there are efforts ongoing, there is a need to strengthen the ability of the states to effectively forward plan for land-use and development, and to mitigate such activities through the EIA process and application of ecologically acceptable norms and standards for most land-use types.

122. Impacts from Climate Change : Conservative anticipated impacts of Climate Change are as follow: tendency towards more frequent typhoons during the summer and fall seasons; Gradual increase in the dry season in the western two-thirds of the FSM (Yap and Chuuk), with concomitant fire hazard; Projected accelerated sea level rise of 0.15 (minimum) to 0.95 meters (maximum) by 2100. Sea level rise is likely to have significant impact on turtle nesting beaches and low-lying seabird nesting areas on atolls. On the High Islands climate change will have extensive impacts on terrestrial and marine ecosystems52. Ocean acidification will deplete coral-based marine ecosystems. Change in ocean currents and ocean warming will impact fisheries. Drying climate will increase the risk and impacts of fires in Yap and Chuuk on natural vegetation, whilst increasing magnitude and frequency of extreme weather events will increase the incidence of lowland flooding and landslides especially in Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae with characteristically steep topographies. Currently climate change is having tangible impacts for low-lying coastal communities, especially those living on atolls, through seawater inundation of traditional taro pits

50 Falanruw, M.C., 2002. Terrestrial Biodiversity of the Federated States of Micronesia. FSM National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan Project. FSM Department of Economic Affairs and Global Environment Facility.51 FSM, 2010. Federated States of Micronesia Fourth National Report. Implementation of Article 6 of the Convention on Biological Diversity.52 FSM, 2010. Federated States of Micronesia Fourth National Report. Implementation of Article 6 of the Convention on Biological Diversity.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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associated with storm events. This renders these pits useless and seriously undermines food security for these communities53.

LONG-TERM SOLUTION AND BARRIERS TO ACHIEVING THE SOLUTION 123. Linked to the Threats and Root Causes noted above, there are two main barriers to

implementing the Ridge to Reef approach, namely:

Lack of an overarching framework for promoting sustainable development in the FSM’s High Islands, including systemic capacities and availability of critical information / knowledge and funding; and,

Inadequate PA representation and capacities to effectively conserve biodiversity of the High Islands of the FSM.

124. These barriers are elaborated on in Table 6, together with long-term solutions proposed by stakeholders. Detailed stakeholder input on barriers and solutions is presented in Annex 6:Summary of barriers and long-term solutions to barriers identified by stakeholders duringthe PPG process.

Table 6 Barriers and long-term solutions

ELABORATION LONG-TERM SOLUTION

Barrier 1: Lack of an overarching framework for promoting sustainable development in the FSM’s High Islands, including systemic capacities and availability of critical information / knowledge and funding.

Institutional arrangements: The federated political structure operating together with NGOs and in parallel to traditional leadership structures in FSM translates into a diverse and complex institutional context for environmental management - National, State, Municipality, NGO, CSO and communities all play a role in SLM and PA management. The role-players and relationship between them are State-specific determined by the prevalence of traditional leadership structures, the relationship between State agencies and with NGOs, and the demographics of land ownership (state vs. private vs. community).

Clear and aligned National policy and State legislation relating to SLM and PA management is missing. National governments’ role is to provide a common framework within which States are

National policy and guidelines needs to clearly define National, State, NGO and community role-players’ roles and responsibilities in terms of implementation, monitoring and enforcement of SLM and PA policies and laws.

Once clear and accepted roles and responsibilities have been established and ratified by decision-making structures, mechanisms need to be put in place to ensure long-term management-level communication and co-operation between role-players and alignment of institutional strategic goals, activities and budgets.

The National government needs to develop national guidelines and standards for SLM and PA policy, implementation, management and monitoring at the

53 Francis, X. and Hezel, S.J. 2009. High Water in the Low Atolls. Micronesian Counselor #76 (March 2009) (available from: http://www.micsem.org/pubs/counselor/frames/highwaterfr.htm?http&&&www.micsem.org/pubs/counselor/highwater.htmPRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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responsible for executing their legal mandate with respect to SLM and the PAN. However, lack of overarching National policy and guidelines combined with poor alignment between and within State-level legislation mean that the limited financial and human resources earmarked in the baseline programs for environmental improvement are deployed and managed by sectoral departments (agriculture, fisheries, forestry) with a general lack of National and State-level co-ordination of activities between sectors.

Co-ordination of effort: There is a need to align and coordinate efforts across sectors and land and water managers and owners, and spearhead innovative ways and means of enhancing ecosystem functioning and resilience in an integrated and coordinated way that balances socio-economic and environmental objectives. Management roles are duplicated across institutions within States; land-use management plans and policies are outdated or do not exists; and, sustainable mechanisms for on-going communication and co-operation between role-players do not exist.

Lack of co-ordination and co-operation is most evident when it comes to environmental law enforcement. There is no or very low levels of co-operation between the State AG Office responsible for prosecuting environmental offences, and the state agencies and NGOs tasked with enforcement. Additionally, because customary law relating to management of traditional proclaimed PAs is not recognized within the State legal systems, environmental offences committed within these PAs cannot be prosecuted within the State legal system.

Monitoring: Without a proper assessment, monitoring and planning regime for the maintenance of ecosystem services, managers and users will continue to have a difficult time effectively evaluating and integrating biodiversity and environmental information and risk assessments into decision-making processes. The lack of comprehensive and coordinated biodiversity monitoring is a symptomatic of a larger environmental information management barrier (discussed below).

Capacity: State governments lack the capacity to

State-level. These guidelines need to promote the attainment of a common standard between States in line with international best practice whilst recognizing the institutional differences between and individual context of each State. Within the context of National policies on SLM and the PAN there needs to be a comprehensive review of State legislation relating to SLM and the PAN. This review should strive to bring all State-level legislation in line with a common standard especially with respect to categories of protected areas. The State PA legislation also needs to make provision for customary PAs, stewardship PAs and biodiversity offsets. Central the revision of the PA legislation is recognizing the role communities play in biodiversity conservation as well as securing the tenure rights of communities in areas of biological significance.

Environmental monitoring and information management needs to be made a national priority, which is coordinated, managed and funded at the national-level. An achievable national information management and environmental monitoring framework needs to be developed and implemented that: builds on existing monitoring initiatives; builds on existing information management initiatives (e.g. GeoMirconesia, FSM CHM, MC, SPREP, TNC, etc.); involves all role-players currently involved in monitoring and enables the building of a collaborative partnership between all role-players; makes provision for a national and/or multi-national data repository and clearing-house; sets minimum standards for data collection and management; puts mechanisms in place to build national capacity around environmental monitoring and information management; defines clear roles and responsibilities especially for National and State departments; respects legal ownership of data and drafts an MOU with key partners to protect rights and define roles and responsibilities; and, puts in place guidelines and mechanisms to allow for data to inform adaptive management and strategic planning processes through use of robust and realistic set of indicators and thresholds linked to the monitoring framework.

Re-couple the environment in the political and social mindsets of the FSM by conducting the necessary foundation research, and preparing and implementing a “Making the Case” strategy to mainstream



generate, implement and enforce integrated land and water management plans. Capacity gaps at the fundamental level such as lack of project and financial management skills combined with lack of knowledge, both technical knowhow and foundation scientific information, and the movement of the most skilled individuals away from State governments constrains the effectiveness of these institutions.

Financial constraints due to limited baseline budgets as well as institutional structural/capacity constraints present a further barrier to up-scaling SLM to a level required to successfully arrest land degradation. The un-coordinated institutional structure of the FSM impacts on financial sustainability as the five governments each have different financial processes, procedures and systems. Added to this is the lack of capacity with respect to financial management systems that results in projects being unnecessarily delayed by the inability to manage and process funds efficiently.

The natural resource management capacity needs of the FSM are not well reflected in curricula offered by training institutions such as schools or the COM, and there is also a lack of post-graduate learning opportunities (e.g. internships) to address these gaps. Therefore, the current capacity gaps experienced by environmental sector nationally are not being adequately or systematically addressed.

Making the case for biodiversity: There is a general lack of political will to invest in environmental management. As a result there is a disconnect between public expenditure and environmental priorities. This is linked primarily to limited or poor awareness among decision-makers and also among the public and local communities of the importance and value of the goods and services provided by functioning ecosystems. The value proposition of biodiversity to the long-term social well-being and economic sustainability of the FSM is not reflected in institutional capacity and budgets.

The development agenda in the FSM is driven overwhelmingly by economic gains without due consideration for social or environmental impacts. There is a need to better integrate consideration of social and environmental costs/benefits into

biodiversity conservation and environment management amongst all stakeholders in the FSM. The purpose of the strategy should be to communicate to all stakeholders the monetary and non-monetary values of the natural environment to the social well-being and economic sustainability of the FSM. A “Making the Case” strategy should explain in layman terms the purpose and value of SLM and the PAN to government, communities and individuals. This needs to be coupled with a concerted awareness/marketing campaign involving all R2R partners using aligned messaging and focusing on political, administrative and community leaders and decision-makers.

Coupled with the “Making the Case” strategy there needs to be growth in public awareness around the FSMs biodiversity, the PAN and SLM by reviewing existing awareness and environmental education initiatives and developing a National strategy that guides and aligns State initiatives particularly with respect to messaging and approach, and which reduces duplication and cross messaging between role-players.

Through the current MC initiative and supported by the “Making the Case” strategy, work to increase core National Compact and Congress funding for State SLM and PA baseline budgets, and also secure alternative sustainable funding mechanisms for non-salary State expenditure by demonstrating to leaders and political decision makers the fundamental links between a healthy environment and a healthy society in the FSM.

Develop SLM SEA’s at in each State with the express purpose of preparing an integrated land-use management tool that gives effect to the Ridge-to-Reef ecosystem-based management conceptual framework and integrated biodiversity conservation and climate change adaptation considerations into a single planning tool. The development of these SEAs is both a capacity building process and a learning experience for how international SLM and SEA concepts can be applied in the FSM context. The SEAs should be further developed into integrated land-use management plans (ILMPs) for selected municipalities that merge the SEA spatial plan with a comprehensive set of practical land-use guidelines



development planning decision-making processes that promotes a more sustainable future for the FSM (e.g. EIA processes).

The lack of political will is perhaps a reflection of the widespread lack of environmental awareness in the FSM society at large. Existing public awareness programs are project-based and focused on specific problems or issues. There is no on-going National strategy for building sustainable biodiversity and environmental awareness programs among all sectors of society especially at school and college levels.

SLM planning and implementation: The FSM does not have operational examples or implementation frameworks for SLM at a landscape level. Without access to technical skills, proven through demonstration, and supported by scientific observation government decision-makers and resource users do not have the tools or knowledge necessary to holistically manage land-use. There is a need to mainstream new planning and management approaches that embody the ecosystem-based management Ridge to Reef mindset and that focuses on sectors that are driving land degradation.

aimed at promoting environmentally sustainable land-use practices amongst the major land-use sectors. The development of the SEA needs to demonstrate the application of systematic spatial biodiversity planning and how spatial biodiversity and environmental data gathered as part of the monitoring program informs spatial land-use planning and decision-making processes. The SEA and PAN design (see below) activities should be conducted as part of the same spatial planning process as the same set of biodiversity and environmental informants will underpin the both processes.

Actively build and retain national skills in applied SLM and PA management through training programs focusing on improving quality/effectiveness of existing staff in agencies and attracting/creating new capacity in the sector. A national learning strategy should include: internship programs for college leavers; lesson-learning/sharing exercises between States; job exchanges; learning partnerships between States, NGO and CBO’s; peer learning networks; mentorship programs to capitalize on institutional knowledge of especially retired agency staff; skills transfer requirement for all international consultants working on the R2R project; provide advanced job training for senior agency staff (e.g. finance, human resources, organizational and project management, life skills); and, collaborate with the COM to nurture young talent by developing and promoting SLM and PA related curricula within the college network.

Barrier 2: Inadequate PA representation and capacities to effectively conserve biodiversity of the High Islands of the FSM

Large stakeholder group: The decentralized political situation in the FSM and the prevalence of private and/or traditional control of lands and waters throughout the nation necessitates broad public participation to build public understanding of the importance of conservation and the role of protected areas. Commitment to PA objectives is not equal amongst all stakeholders and collaboration and coordination of initiatives can be improved.

Community capacity: Local communities or private

Communication and learning networks at the State, National and regional levels are central to the success, replication and sustainability of the R2R approach. Existing peer learning and communication networks need to be strengthened, and new networks created to promote especially community-level learning and capacity building in PA management as well as promoting a more coordinated approach to environmental management amongst stakeholders.

Within State learning networks should be centred on



landowners own many of the nation’s areas of biodiversity significance, and therefore these owners do play a significant biodiversity management role. PAs need to be initiated at the community-level, where they will be well supported locally and address local resource over-exploitation concerns. Communities have strong cultural and social ties to the environment but with rapid changes in population, consumption and changes in people’s lifestyles, the capacity for local communities to manage the areas of biodiversity significance is eroding. Despite the import role communities play in natural resource management there are no systematic programs to build biodiversity/environmental awareness or management capacity within this sector.

Low-levels of State involvement: Until recently, there has been little national involvement in PA management and establishment. However, without involvement by the State in PA establishment and management, PA regulations imposed by community managers will remain un-aligned or recognized in State legislation, and in most cases customary law is not enforceable against violators from outside the community. The lack of State involvement in traditional PAs means the few financial resources are allocated to the management of these areas.

Gaps in National and State legislation, strategy and guidelines: PA management will also be more effective and efficient if common functions are standardized and centralized nationally e.g. spatial planning, management planning, finance and legal affairs. A clear barrier in the effective management of PAs is therefore the current unclear roles and responsibilities and capacities among the National, State and local-level agencies (NGOs) and local communities due to lack of clear national policy and guidelines.

Many States do not have sufficient biodiversity legislation and there are no national standards or guidelines for the creation and management of PAs, or alignment of policy between States. Related to this is lack of PA management effectiveness monitoring and lack of effective PA management plan enforcement especially with respect to illegal activities.

formalized State-NGO-Community partnerships aimed at improved PA management effectiveness and co-operation. Given the diversity of role players and the limited resources and capacity for PA management these public-private partnerships will be critical to the long-term sustainability of the PAN. State level learning networks should focus on applying lessons from the National and regional learning networks to improving site-based PA management especially with respect to environmental law enforcement and prosecution.

Design a representative PAN by conducting a quantitative systematic spatial biodiversity assessment to identify a network of sites necessary to achieve the MC terrestrial and marine PA targets. The assessment should include: be based on the best available scientific spatial data on the distribution of biodiversity and threats to biodiversity in the FSM; have explicit targets (objectives) for representing biodiversity pattern and ecological processes; data collection should be linked to that for the SEA and monitoring programs; conduct a spatial analysis to identify a suite of sites that achieve the targets; conduct a multi-criterion analysis to prioritize a sub-set of sites for inclusion into the PAN; the spatial plan needs to be coupled with a 3-5 year implementation strategy for including the highest priority sites that achieve the R2R PA expansion indicators into the PAN; ideally the conservation plan and the SLM SEA should be conducted as part of the same spatial planning process.

A prospectus containing the description, distribution and status of the FSMs biodiversity needs to be compiled and made widely available to stakeholders especially those tasked with managing biodiversity. Good general knowledge within the sector on the existence and status of the biodiversity asset-base is foundational to enabling better biodiversity management. The prospectus will provide the knowledge material used to build environmental awareness and most importantly inform planning processes such as SLM SEA; PA systematic spatial conservation planning; or, PA management planning. Existing biodiversity information together with that collected for the SEA and PAN design process should be collated and presented in a format that is scientifically accurate and detailed; covers the whole



Tied to the legislative gaps is the lack of recognition in the law for existing traditional forms of conservation management. Communities currently manage many de facto PAs through traditional structures but these are not recognized or supported through the current State legislative frameworks. Similarly, National policy and State legislation also needs to make provision for contemporary approaches to creating and managing PAs such as biosphere reserves, stewardship or conservation easements and biodiversity offsets.

PAN not representative: The current PAN is not representative of the FSMs biodiversity. There is clear need to expand the protected area system in order to establish a representative PAN that effectively conserves examples of all FSMs biodiversity and maintains key ecological processes. Current PA expansion has been opportunistic and not underpinned by a systematic spatial conservation plan.

The support from State and National government for strengthening the representation of the PAN has not kept pace with the information needs necessary to design and manage the PAN. Whilst the biodiversity of the FSM is reasonably well documented this information is highly fragmented, dated and generally resides out of state meaning that it is not readily available to or interpreted for planning purposes or for state/community PA managers. There is a dire need to build awareness generally amongst stakeholders around the biodiversity of the FSM, but more importantly biodiversity information from inventory and monitoring needs to be placed into the hands of planners, managers, decision-makes and communities to better inform PAN design and management.

of the FSM; represents the best and most currently available data; is accessible to stakeholders (e.g. limited scientific jargon); is widely and easily available (e.g. on the internet or printed book); and, can be used for awareness, learning and training initiatives. This product, whether a website, book, poster or combination of media should be closely aligned to the biodiversity information management processes discussed above.

A standardized PA reporting and performance monitoring system has been one of the main outcome areas under the Micronesia Challenge. In 2008 the Micronesia Challenge Measures Working Group met and established a protocol and timeline for regular meetings to review and analyze progress towards achieving the goals of the Micronesia Challenge. Sub working groups have subsequently met numerous times throughout the last six years, working out targets, indicators and processes for monitoring progress towards MC goals. To avoid duplication and to continue to support consistent monitoring R2R should provide assistance to further develop the tools and procedures already under development through the MC.

STAKEHOLDER ANALYSIS

125. A characteristic of FSM is the number and diversity of stakeholders that will be involved in supporting implementation of this project. As is detailed in Table 2 below, their roles in terms of implementation have been matched to their official responsibilities. This will ensure alignment of their mandate to their role during implementation. This is critical in terms of ensuring ownership and allocation of internal resources during implementation as


well as ensuring long term sustainability after the completion of the GEF sponsored activities.

126. It is important to note in this context that the implementing agency managing the project on behalf of the GEF is the United Nations Development Programme.

127. The stakeholder engagement plan used in the project design stage is appended in Annex 4.


TABLE 7 CURRENT ROLES OF STAKEHOLDERS IN SLM AND PA MANAGEMENT AND THEIR INDICATIVE ROLE IN THIS PROJECT. ORGANISATIONS HIGHLIGHTED IN BLUE ARE R2R IMPLEMENTATION PARTNERS.

Organization Current role in SLM and PA management Indicative Project Roles

National


National government agency coordinating environmental projects.

Project’s implementing agency with overall project management and project development responsibilities. The Department will play collaborate with all the national and state stakeholders in promoting and mainstreaming the project at both the political and community level.

Overall R2R project management and oversight, technical advice and the SLM components of the project will be implemented this this Department.

Department of Resources and Development (R&D)

National government agency coordinating land and marine resources management under the Convention on Biodiversity. The R&D is in charge of coordinating the country’s response to environmental degradation, protection, and if possible, rehabilitation of natural habitats at the National, State and local levels.

Work closely with the Office of Environment and Emergency Management in its coordination of the project.

The PA components of the R2R project will be implemented through this Department.

Office of Statistics, Budget and Economic Management, Overseas Development and Compact Management (SBOC)

National government agency with oversight and states-national coordination functions relating to strategic use of overseas development assistance funds for the FSM.

Provide coordinating, complementing support between existing and pipeline projects and the R2R project across the FSM States and national government in order to leverage development funds and technical assistance to maximize the project’s contribution to the FSM.

Micronesia Conservation Trust Leading regional non-governmental organization focusing on conservation projects and sustainable financing of the conservation sector in the FSM and other partner governments in the region.

Continue to support the biodiversity efforts under protected areas management under the Micronesia Challenge initiative. Provide financing or project disbursement services to NGO and state government partners if required.

National R2R Project partner for implementation of SLM and PA activities.

College of Micronesia-FSM: College level environmental science, agriculture and Provide training and qualification in sustainable land



Cooperative Research and Extension Services

extension, forestry and marine research and studies. Host of the U.S Land Grant program.

management courses. Provision of agriculture extension services and farmers' training. Conduct relevant agriculture research. Coordinate or take part in community meetings and awareness programs. Source of ethno botanical, biodiversity and other natural resource management. Can provide and house information base.

Department of Commerce and Industry

Departments of Commerce and Industry and business councils provide permits for economic development

Permits for economic development can run counter to conservation aims (dredge sites right next to PAs, foreign investment leading to buildings/roads fragmenting/disrupting habitat. This department is included as stakeholders since the project should include them mainly around awareness raising particularly with respect to SLM, ILMP, EIA processes, etc.

Department of Education Provision of training on environmental studies. Support curriculum development on environmental studies and educational awareness activities.

Yap State

Attorney General's Office Legal review and enforcement of policies and regulations on natural resource management in Yap.

Ensure reviews and enforcement of existing laws. Draft new legislations.

Environmental Protection Agency Regulatory agency responsible for protection of land, air, and ocean resources and enforcement of regulation.

Enforcement of environmental regulations. Training and monitoring of development in land and marine resources projects. Support community and state environmental projects.

State-level R2R project partner leading implementation of PA activities.

Governor's Office Guardian of natural resource use and protection for the state. Can introduce legislation to create new PAs

Endorse and provide support to project implementers and activities.

Office of Planning and Budget The Office coordinates Yap state agencies to develop and implement statewide plans for coastal and terrestrial management within the R2R framework e.g. JNAP (Joint National Action Plan) unifies all climate

Coordination of state agencies to prevent budget duplication and ensure that all state agencies are adhering to agreed or legislated plans, including gender-responsive budget and planning.



change conventions for each state and for the nation. Resources and Development Department overseeing State Divisions responsible for

managing land and marine resources Resources and technical assistance to support development of land and marine use plan

State-level R2R project partner leading implementation of SLM activities.

Resources and Development: Division of Agriculture and Forestry

Main division that coordinates and implements measures promoting sustainable land management and agricultural practices.

Development and management of land use plan, guidelines, data and records. Training in land management, including surveys. Developing and provision of training in sustainable agriculture practices. Facilitate increased awareness of sustainable agriculture and land use practices.

Resources and Development: Division of Land Resources

Responsible for management of public lands, including GIS development and management.

Resources and Development: Marine Resources Management Division

Management of MPAs for the Yap State. Includes community engagement, data collection and monitoring activities in conjunction with other PA stakeholders

Ensure sustainable use of marine resources

Women's Interest Office, Yap Department of Youth and Community Affairs

State government office promoting women's interests in Yap.

Promote key role of women in project implementation and awareness.

Yap CAP (para-statial) Government organization that provides support to communities to develop and implement Conservation Action Plans and Management Plans including PA monitoring.

Work with relevant partners to continue provision of support to communities in protected area development and management.

State-level R2R project partner leading implementation of SLM and PA activities.

Yap Fishing Authority State authority charged to manage sustainable fish stock for the state.

In collaboration with partners, can assist in enforcement; support and implement sustainable project such as FADs to alleviate poaching.

Yap Institute of Natural Science An educational institute providing assistance to communities with documentation and research support in sustainable land management, protected areas and biodiversity. Developed the framework for sustainable development (40 years ago) with private and public

Continue to provide support in agro and marine ethno-ecology through documentation and research.



partners.College of Micronesia - Cooperative and Research Extension

Research and Extension training services to communities on sustainable land management practices.

Provision of training and reference information. Integrated approach to training: agriculture, gardening, crops planting, solid waste management/recycling and composting. Work closely with schools and women's groups to promote sustainable land management practices.

Yap Farmers Organization Community organization for farmers for the state. Coordinate implementation of SLM projects amongst farmer groups in Yap. Promote sustainable land management usage, food security and marketing of fresh produce.

Yap Women's Association Non government organization promoting the key role of women in Yap society. Women are central in promoting and maintaining sustainable land management and protected areas and other natural resource management.

Promote and practice sustainable land management at the community level. Work with relevant partners to promote awareness raising activities.

Chuuk State

Attorney General's Office Legal review and enforcement of policies and regulations on natural resource management in Chuuk. Reviews draft legislation to create or modify PAs.


Department of Administrative Services

The Department administers Chuuk State budget. Coordination of state agencies to prevent budget duplication and ensure compliance.

Department of Agriculture and Forestry

Department that coordinates and implements measures promoting sustainable land management and agricultural practices. These activities also support sustainable livelihoods programming, which can have an indirect effect on PA management.

Promote and provide support in sustainable agriculture and forestry practices and training including rehabilitation, invasive species management and climate change adaptation activities.


Department of Marine Resources State government department responsible for the protection, surveillance and sustainable use of marine resources. Conducts enforcement for Chuuk.

Provide technical assistance in standard operating procedures & enforcement training, marine monitoring training, management planning, community education/awareness, marine protected area design &



management. Support sustainable marine activities including climate change adaptation activities A key player in policy development for Fisheries and marine resources management.


Environmental Protection Agency Mandated by CSL 02-94-01 to provide for the protection of land, water and quality of air. Conducts assessments, writes regulations, enforces legislation related to land water and air quality management. Also responsible for climate change adaptation and mitigation which can influence PAs.

Provision of trainings and workshops on EIA, GIS & conservation management. Lead in facilitating and conducting community meetings and public awareness. Follow up on the implementation of management plans by the community. Oversee information management including monitoring information on Protected Area management. Support establishment of watershed management. Support and partly implement climate change and adaptation activities/projects.


Governor's Office Stated goal of guardian of natural resource use and protection for the state. Can also introduce legislation to create new PAs.


Chuuk Conservation Society NGO working on conservation and protection of terrestrial and marine resources in Chuuk.

Provision of capacity building through trainings and workshops with communities and other relevant partners. Focus areas include development of community action plans and management plans monitoring, protected area design, green livelihoods and income generation for communities. Leverage partner organization efforts.


Chuuk Women's Council Non government organization promoting the key role of women in Chuuk society. Women are central in

Work with relevant state agencies and other partners to promote sustainable land management and protected



promoting and maintaining sustainable land management and protected areas and other natural resource management.

area management at the community level. Represent and promote community priorities.

COM- Cooperative Research and Extension

Research and Extension training services to communities on sustainable land management practices.

Provision of training and reference information. Integrated approach to training: agriculture (gardening, crops planting, solid waste management/recycling and composting). Work closely with schools and women's groups to promote sustainable land management practices.

Pohnpei State

Attorney General's Office Legal review and enforcement of policies and regulations on natural resource management in Pohnpei. Also responsible for trying cases when violations occur. However, bottleneck for enforcement at this office, as poaching is currently viewed as a low priority


Department of Lands and Natural Resources (including Forestry Division)

Issue permits, responsible for approving the establishment of PAs. Coordinate with partner agencies on important task relating the watershed land. Department of Lands/Forestry mandated agency for terrestrial management. Engaged by CSP in the process of soliciting community support for the establishment of new PAs, assists in shepherding through the legal registration of new PAs. Also supposed to help with management, but do not have a person assigned. Division of Lands/Forestry in charge of all the mangrove PAs and the Watershed

Take part in community meetings, field boundary survey and maintain records and information. Work with the OFA, Fisheries and Aquaculture on enforcement of regulations in terrestrial conservation in Pohnpei.


Department of Public Safety, Fish and Wildlife

Enforcement agency for protected areas in Pohnpei, and community awareness and outreach activities, partners with CSP and others to conduct campaigns

Ridge to reef enforcement. Work with municipalities for terrestrial/watershed protected area enforcement. Provision of training on enforcement to conservation officers in protected areas.

State-level R2R project partner leading implementation



of SLM and PA activities.Environmental Protection Agency Regulatory agency responsible for protection of land,

air, and ocean resources. Also responsible for climate change adaptation and mitigation which can influence PAs



Governor's Office Can introduce legislation to create new PAsOffice of Economic Affairs: Agriculture

Focal state agency for sustainable land management. Current Chief is Chairman of the Island Food Community of Pohnpei (IFCP) as well as the Soil and Water Conservation Board. Encourages sustainable livelihoods, which indirectly support PA objectives. Conducts the current demonstration of dry litter piggery, composting and biogas as well as demonstration farms.

Coordinate and facilitate sustainable land management activities among relevant partners. Work with College of Micronesia in implementing extension services. Coordinate agricultural field days and training programs with partners. Develop, deliver and manage information materials and services.

Office of Economic Affairs: Fisheries and Aquaculture

Lead state government agency in conservation and rehabilitation of marine life and ecosystem. Part of the team for monitoring and responsible for developing sustainable livelihoods in the communities surrounding PAs as part of PA management

Work with Department of Public Safety, Division of Fish and Wildlife, on enforcement and issuance of permits for protected marine areas. Continue to undertake regulation enforcement of terrestrial conservation for the Department of Lands and Natural Resources in Pohnpei.

Conservation Society of Pohnpei NGO in terrestrial and marine conservation in the state. Manages PAs and actively engaged in monitoring marine species, works on invasive species, monitoring siltation, monitoring watershed.

Work with state and community-based partners to implement project activities; monitoring, development of management plans, implementation and monitoring of plans, eradication and management of invasive species, education and awareness. Identification of plant species. Provide information base for FSM Geospatial Information data.


Council of Traditional Leaders Community leadership. Make declarations, endorsement of activities usually at



community, island-wide level.Island Food Community of Pohnpei (IFCP)

Active in promotional work of locally produce foods. Participate in research, public awareness and community training.

Pohnpei Farmers' Association Community organization for farmers for the state. Coordinate implementation of SLM projects amongst farmer groups in Pohnpei. Promote sustainable land management usage, food security and marketing of fresh produce.

Pohnpei Women's Advisory Council

Non government organization promoting the key role of women in Pohnpeian society. Women are central in promoting and maintaining sustainable land management and protected areas and other natural resource management.

Work with relevant state agencies and other partners to promote sustainable land management and protected area management at the community level. Represent and promote community priorities.

Kosrae State

Attorney General's Office Legal review and enforcement of policies and regulations on natural resource management in Kosrae. Responsible for prosecuting cases of poaching and other PA violations. The Division of Public Safety is under the AG's office and is privately responsible for enforcement.


Department of Resources and Economic Affairs

Department charged with overseeing marine and land resource management. Responsible for fisheries development in support of sustainable livelihoods and marine surveillance unit. Conducts some invasive species eradication work funded by international development and conservation organizations

Collaboration with partners to undertake marine protected area monitoring as well as invasive species eradication and management. Economic planning for alternative livelihoods development. GIS mapping for protected areas boundaries measurement and land registration.

Department of Resources and Economic Affairs, Division of Agriculture

State government division responsible for agriculture, including quarantine services. Does model farming, has export promotion programs. These activities also support sustainable livelihoods programming, which can have an indirect effect on PA effectiveness. Works on invasive species eradication.

Extension services; teach farmers erosion control methods, preparing compost instead of chemical fertilizers and other sustainable land management practices. Provide equipment support services.

Governor's Office Guardian of natural resource use and protection for the state. Governor signs legislation for the creation of new




PAsKosrae Conservation and Enforcement Taskforce

Taskforce for the protection of Kosrae state's natural resources for future generations. The taskforce is comprised of representatives of government and non-governmental organizations, including: KIRMA, YELA, Attorney General's office, DREA, KCSO, as well as Municipal conservation officers. New attempt at collaboration to enforce existing legislation and regulation for natural resource management in general, and PAs in particular.

To enforce the laws on protected areas. Composed of representatives from KIRMA, KCSO, DREA, the Police and YELA.

Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority (KIRMA)

State government agency spearheading the implementation of sustainable land management and protected area work in partnership with the other stakeholders. Mandated to manage and monitor state-wide marine areas as well as to enforce protected areas. Sets regulatory framework. Includes a forest conservation unit and a marine conservation unit. Responsible for invasive species eradication work. Conducts biological/ecological monitoring. KIRMA focused on conservation and Pas.

Provision of regulatory services including prescription of buffer zones and water quality legislation, and issuance of permits. Work with relevant state and non governmental organizations and other partners on sustainable ecosystems management and conservation. Promote education and outreach on environmental issues in Kosrae.


Kosrae Visitors Bureau Promotes ecotourism, builds awareness about Kosrae's protected areas and natural resources

COM-Cooperative Research Extension

Farmers’ training/resource users for sustainable use of the land.

Collaborate with state and non government partners to deliver sustainable land use activities. Assist in research activities in natural resource management.

FSM Pacific Adaptation to Climate Change program

PACC - Coastal Resource Management Plan for Kosrae. Climate proofing project of Okat circumferential road. Mainstreaming CCA policies.

Support in awareness and outreach; collaborate with partners.

Kosrae Conservation and Safety Organization

Leading non governmental organization working on conservation and protection of terrestrial and marine resources in Kosrae.

Provision of capacity-building through trainings and workshops with communities and other relevant partners. Focus areas include development of community action plans and management plans monitoring, protected area design, green livelihoods and income generation for communities. Leverage



partner organization efforts.


Kosrae Women's Association Women are central in promoting and maintaining SLM and PA and other natural resource management.

Continuing work with NRM organizations; will promote SLM and PA management at the village and community level

YELA (Yela Environment Landowners Authority)

Yela Forest Management and Protection. Continue working in collaboration with partners to expand the protected area to include upland forests all the way down to the reef (R2R approach). Possible project pilot site.


International NGOs

GEF SGP Environmental small grants mechanism to provide extra support to project activities.

Environmental small grants mechanism to provide extra support to project activities.

Marine Environment Research Institute of the Pacific (MERIP)

Non governmental organization working on aquaculture development and management projects.

Research, promotion and implementation of aquaculture activities. Develop and manage sustainable aquaculture products/ alternative livelihoods. Provision of training to communities.

Natural Resource Conservation (USDA)

United States Department providing technical and financial assistance to the FSM on agriculture and other sustainable land management practices.

Take part in community trainings and field visits. Can take part in meetings to provide guidance on natural resource conservation.

Pacific Resources for Education and Learning (PREL)

International independent, non-profit organization with an office in Pohnpei that works with communities to enhance their well-being through partnerships in education.

Potential natural resource educational dissemination mechanism.

RARE International non-government organization working in protected areas across the FSM states and wider Micronesia pacific region.

Potential partners in capacity development for protected areas management at community level.

Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC)

Pacific regional organization, of which the FSM is a member. SPC assists member countries with advice,

Provision of technical assistance projects contributing to sustainable natural resources management in the



technical assistance and also negotiations on various international agreements on development, natural resource and the environment.

FSM. Coordinate current projects with this project. Support regional learning/information exchange.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) International non-government organization based in Pohnpei focusing on the Micronesia Challenge initiative.

Continue to provide technical support to the Micronesia Challenge initiative.

National R2R Project partner for implementation of SLM and PA activities.

UNDP Joint Presence Office UN agency overseeing the project, based in Pohnpei. Project progress oversight.Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Program (SPREP)

Pacific regional organization, of which the FSM is a member. SPREP assist member countries with advice, technical assistance and also negotiations on various international agreements on development and the environment.

Can provide complementing technical and other capacity-building assistance to the R2R project. Support regional learning/information exchange.

International Organization for Migration (IOM)

Learning networks

Table 8. Biodiversity research and information stakeholders relevant to FSM.

Name Organization / Agency Expertise Located in:

Alex Wegmann Island Conservation Invasive species eradication programs throughout Micronesia HawaiiAndy Walker Bat Conservation

InternationalExecutive Director; BCI will work closely with communities and others to build local capacity for collaborative and proactive site-based conservation, regional planning, and fundraising for the conservation of threatened bats

Virginia

Ann Kitalong Belau National Museum; The Environment Inc.

Curator; Support activities-inventories, identification biodiversity, planning, policy development

Palau

Brooke Nevitt PMRI Socio-economic Monitoring SaipanChris LaFranchi One Reef Long-term marine conservation agreements, financing of marine plans

including enforcement, monitoring and community engagement, conservation finance, silicon valley funders interested in new technologies (UAVs (drones), bioacoustic probes, etc.)

California

Dave Waldien Bat Conservation Director of Global Programs; BCI will work closely with communities and Virginia



International others to build local capacity for collaborative and proactive site-based conservation, regional planning, and fundraising for the conservation of threatened bats

Greg Moretti Pacific Marine Resources Institute

Director, social science technical assistance and dissemination of science to inform decision-making

Saipan

Katie Munkres Pacific Islands Climate Change Cooperative

Resource management practices adapted to CC, provide trainings and decision making tools – also comms experience and behavior change campaign advice

Hawaii

Kevin Rhodes University of Hawaii Adjunct Faculty, MPA design, science, monitoring support CaliforniaLiz Terk TNC Conservation PohnpeiMeghan Gombos Sea Change Consulting Technical support for CC adaptation, especially through PIMPAC Rhode IslandMike Guilbeaux HawaiiPeter Houk University of Guam

Marine LaboratoryAssistant Professor, science and monitoring support Guam

Phil Andreozzi US National Invasive Species Council

Technical assistance on biosecurity, invasive species (e.g. MC Biosecurity Plan)

Washington, DC

Ray Nias Island Conservation Southwest Pacific Regional Director, invasive species technical and logistical support specifically for vertebrate eradication

Sydney, Australia

Sam Sablan Mariana Islands Nature Alliance

Executive Director, education and outreach to the communities in the CNMI Saipan

Schannel van Dijken Conservation International Pacific Islands Marine Program Manager, protected area planning and design, capacity building, facilitation, research, workshop planning

Samoa

Tim Curruthers Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme

Marine and Coastal Advisor, create stronger linkages with MC, cross-learning to other Pacific Island countries

Samoa

Wayne Andrew Pacific Islands Managed and Protected Areas Community (PIMPAC)/Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMA) Network

Community-based resource management planning. Palau

Wayne Law New York Botanical Garden

Technical support for botanical inventory, ethno-botanical surveys, terrestrial surveys

New York

Yimnang Golbuu Biological monitoring, MC regional database Palau



Katrina Adams Kosrae Village Ecolodge Marine ecotourism, Sustainable development, Coral monitoring, Community outreach

Kosrae, FSM

Marjie Falanruw YINS Forestry YapBill Raynor TNC Conservation, Endangered Species FSMKonrad Englberger Independent Consultant Invasive Species, Plant Protection, Agriculture FSMXavier Independent Consultant Fish catch monitoring ChuukDon Buden COM-FSM Reptiles and invertebrates FSMBrian Lynch COM-FSM Freshwater fish FSMCarlos Jose Cianchini

Independent Consultant Biodiversity Field Ecologist Kosrae

David Laurens Hawaii National Tropical Botanical Gardens

Plant Species FSM

Table 9. Summary of baseline financing of environmental programs in FSM.

Entity Description Budget Congress

Budget Compact

Donor Funds Total

I. FSM National Government

A.

FSM Department of Resources and Development; National Resource Management Program

Coordination of activities with States, attending meetings, organizing meetings $856,179 $0 $0 $856,179

B. Office of Environment and Emergency Management

Coordination of activities with States, attending meetings, organizing meetings $327,421 $0 $0 $327,421

Subtotal, FSM National Government $1,183,600 $0 $0 $1,183,600 II. Pohnpei State Government and NGOs

A. Environmental Protection Agency

Awareness, enforcement, monitoring; Budget used to be $330,000 $0 $205,000 $0 $205,000

B.Department of Land and Natural Resources; Division of Forestry

Watershed monitoring and alignment, tree nursery, enforcement*$30,000 - $50,0000 from US Dept. Forestry for tree nurseries

$0 $70,000 $40,000 $110,000

C. Conservation Society of Pohnpei (NGO)

Awareness, training, monitoring of PAs Invasive Species, reporting for law enforcement agencies. $0 $0 $422,665 $422,665



Budget Compact

Donor Funds Total

D. Division of Fish and Wildlife Law enforcement. $0 $117,000 $0 $117,000

E. Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture

Awareness, regulator, monitoring and evaluation of MPAs $0 $173,500 $0 $173,500

F. Office of Economic Affairs; Department of Agriculture

SLM practices, piggery dry litter, food security, invasive species $0 $173,500 $0 $173,500

G. Office of Economic Affairs; Office of Administration

Coordination with Governor’s Office, organizing and attending meetings $0 $117,000 $0 $117,000

H. Island Food Community of Pohnpei (NGO) Promotion of healthy local food security $20,000 $0 $70,000 $90,000

I. Pohnpei Visitor's Bureau Provides promotional services for tourism activities in Pohnpei $120,000 $0 $0 $120,000

Subtotal, Pohnpei State and NGOs $140,000 $856,000 $532,665 $1,528,665 III. Chuuk State Government and NGOs

A. Environmental Protection Agency

Law enforcement, awareness, monitoring, solid waste control, control of water and wastewater $0 $367,214 $0 $367,214

B. Department of Agriculture and Forestry

Nursery development, endemic plant conservation, food security, SLM, tree planting $0 $402,358 $0 $402,358

C. Department of Marine Resources

Sea cucumber and coral reef protection, MPA monitoring $0 $214,787 $0 $214,787

D. Chuuk Visitor's BureauProvides promotional services for tourism activities in Chuuk; of total budget, $19,594 is for natural resource management activities

$0 $119,704 $0 $119,704

E. Conservation Society of Chuuk Awareness, training, monitoring of PAs Invasive Species, reporting for law enforcement agencies. $0 $0 $90,000 $90,000

Subtotal, Chuuk State and NGOs $0 $1,104,063 $90,000 $1,194,063 IV. Kosrae State Government and NGOs

A. Kosrae Conservation and Safety Organization

Law enforcement, public awareness, protection officers $10,000 $0 $190,000 $200,000

B. Kosrae Tourism Bureau

Tourism-related natural resource management and international promotions. Of compact budget, $29,000 is for natural resource management activities

$10,000 $90,250 $0 $100,250

C. Department of Resources and Economic Affairs

Food security, implementation of SLM, invasive species $85,000 $560,000 $0 $645,000



Budget Compact

Donor Funds Total

D. Kosrae Island Resource Management Agency

Tree nursery and tree planting, law enforcement, awareness, drafting of laws, monitoring of PA’s $20,000 $246,046 $0 $266,046

E. YELA Environment Landowners' Authority

Awareness, monitoring and evaluation, reporting to law enforcement agencies. Endowment includes $390,000 from US Forest Service, and $160,000 from Packard Foundation. Endowment total is $550,000

$50,000 $0 $0 $50,000

F.Pacific Adaptation to Climate Change (pilot program in Kosrae)

Piloting climate change adaptation in road infrastructure in the coastal zone in Kosrae. Donor is UNDP GEF, $1 million over three years

$0 $0 $333,400 $333,400

Subtotal, Kosrae State and NGOs $175,000 $1,086,296 $333,400 $1,594,696 V. Yap State Government and NGOs

A. Department of Agriculture and Forestry

Tree nursery and tree planting, invasive species, food security implementation of SLM, watershed monitoring. Australian Government funds approximately $12,500/year

$0 $168,181 $12,398 $180,579

B. Environmental Protection Agency

Awareness, law enforcement, PA’s management and monitoring $0 $104,435 $0 $104,435

C. Yap Community Action Program (YapCAP) Awareness, law enforcement, monitoring of PA’s $70,198 $0 $0 $70,198

D. Yap Visitor's BureauProvides promotional services for tourism activities in Yap; of total budget, $15,559 is for natural resource management activities

$0 $278,000 $0 $278,000

E. Department of Public Works and Transportation Infrastructure repair, rehabilitates road easements $0 $49,192 $0 $49,192

F. Yap Institute of Natural Sciences (Margie Falanruw)

Promotes indigenous integrity through wise, sustainable use of local resources, and the search for a valid ethno-ecological lifestyle in the Yap islands ecosystem. Funding provided by the US Department of Forestry

$0 $0 $1,000 $1,000

Subtotal, Yap State and NGOs $70,198 $599,808 $13,398 $683,404 VI. International/Regional Organizations

A. The Nature Conservancy TNC is helping the Micronesia Challenge by supplying the scientific know-how and conservation $0 $0 $510,000 $510,000


http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/asiaandthepacific/micronesia/howwework/index.htm



Budget Compact

Donor Funds Total

creativity. TNC funds approximately $290,000 of activities directly through local NGOs (captured above), the figure at right is money spent by TNC directly on capacity building support.

B. Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)

Funding for climate change adaptation and mitigation activities $0 $0 $80,000 $80,000

C.US Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

USDA-NRCS works with landowners, local conservation districts, government agencies and other environmental entities through conservation planning and assistance to benefit the soil, water, air, plants, and animal for productive lands and healthy ecosystems.

$0 $0 $750,000 $750,000

D. Micronesia Conservation Trust

Provides small grants to local NGOs and CBOs, and that funding is reflected in NGO budgets above. Estimate $200,000 for annual operating and staff expenses for activities in the FSM

$0 $0 $200,000 $200,000

E. European Union Climate change work administered through the SPC. $334,000 per year for three years total $1 million $0 $0 $334,000 $334,000

F. College of Micronesia (Land Grant)

Extension and Research; Donor portion from Smith/Lever and Hatch Research; rest is State level matching. Assistance with sustainable agriculture and organic food production

$0 $210,000 $894,002 $1,104,002

Subtotal, International/Regional Organizations $0 $210,000 $2,768,002 $2,978,002Grand Total, (Sum I - VI) $1,568,798 $3,856,167 $3,737,465 $9,162,430




BASELINE ANALYSIS

128. The baseline for this project is the “business-as-usual” scenario that would take place over the next five years in the absence of the interventions proposed by the project. The baseline analysis of legislation, budget and institutional capacity for implementing effective PA management and SLM

129. Current annual expenditure on the environment in FSM is summarised in Table 9. Annually approximately US$9.2 million is committed to natural resource management on the High Islands of Micronesia. Domestic funding is largely secured through the annual US Compact (US$3.8 million) and National Congress (US$1.6 million) funds, which is funnelled to six sectors, with the Environment sector being sixth and smallest recipient. These domestic funds have traditionally been allocated to the National government and State Environmental Protection Agencies, Department of Agriculture, Marine Resources, Transportation and Resources & Development, the Tourism Bureaux, and YapCAP.

130. At the national level the funding will support the R&D to provide technical, advisory and support services regarding natural resource management to the States and promote tourism enterprises in all States. The majority of these funds will be used to finance the management of the existing state protected areas or to assist in the management of the existing Community-based protected areas through the various State Departments (Chuuk State: Department of Agriculture, Department of Marine Resources; Pohnpei State: Department of Land and Natural Resources, Department of Public Safety; Kosrae State: Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority; and Yap State: Department of Resources and Development). These departments will also provide an extension service to farmers and together with the NGOs undertake regular monitoring activities of marine resources, including enforcing the law. State agencies (Environmental Protection Agencies of Chuuk, Yap and Pohnpei and the Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority) will undertake Environment Impact Assessments as required and monitor water quality. Research and interviews indicate that the majority of agency budgets are spent on salaries, with a smaller portion on materials and equipment.

131. Other domestic funds available come from fisheries licensing fees and are sometimes allocated as appropriations from the respective state congressional delegations to NGOs and community groups for environmental projects.

132. Donor funds also play a significant role in contributing to natural resource management in the FSM, and are likely to become an even more significant source of funding given the impending decline in Compact funds in 2023. Donor funds are received through competitive or base grant processes are distributed to governmental as well as local, non-governmental organizations, including Community Based Organizations (CBOs) and state-wide NGOs such as the Kosrae Conservation and Safety Organization, the Conservation Society of Chuuk, and the Conservation Society of Pohnpei. These NGOs do a significant amount of PA management and SLM work within the FSM, and therefore Table 9 also includes the estimated budgets of key NGOs in each of the four States. While CBOs can and do receive funding directly from National and State agencies as well as international donors, there is no mechanism for tracking the level of this funding. Therefore CBOs are


not included in this Table. The primary sources of funding are US federal grants (considered as a different category of funding than Compact funds) such as USAID, USDA, USFS, NOAA and the USDOI amongst others. The NGOs finance the establishment and management of protected areas, community partnership building and consultations, environmental awareness campaigns, training and workshops through the Micronesia Conservation Trust, from foreign Governments such as Japan, the European Union, Germany, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Venezuela and other private foundations and donors. This injection of funding into the environment sector (through financing from the above-mentioned sources) equals US$ 3.7 million per annum. This funding stream from the donors is not guaranteed; donors do not specifically allocate funds towards the environment every year.

133. Conservation Society of Pohnpei will continue its management and support role to Pohnpei State protected areas and Community-based PAs. This includes the surveying, demarcating, management and monitoring of law enforcement of the Watershed Forest Reserve, as well as implementing its “grow low” programme to encourage farmers to grow sakau on the lowlands of Pohnpei. CSP plays a major role in the management of invasive species as well as awareness raising especially in schools. One species, Octopus tree (Schefflera actinophylla) has been successfully eradicated, and three other species have been 90% eradicated. It will continue its support to the marine protected areas of Pohnpei, as well as its marine monitoring programme which includes monitoring of Grouper Spawning and Aggregation, fish – focusing on the preferred market fish families – Scaridae (Parrotfish), Lethrinidae (Emperors) and Siganidae (Rabbitfish). CSP also monitors siltation in lagoons. The Chuuk Conservation Society will support and collaborate with the communities that manage the Parem Marine PA and the Epinup Mangrove Reserve. With the mentioned funding Kosrae Conservation and Safety Organisation will support the community in the management of the Awane Marine PA, Tafunsak Marine PA and Olu Watershed PA. The funding received by Yela Environment Landowners Association will assist in the management of the Yela Conservation Easement Tract and specifically for the conservation of “Ka” forest in the Yela Ka Forest PA. The Micronesia Conservation Trust will improve the predictability of funding flows by creating a planned US$ 20 million endowment. MCT currently provides US$200 000 annually to environmental work in the FSM.

134. International and regional development and conservation organizations also have operational budgets that are spent on staff and technical assistance and training activities with the FSM, separate from the money they provide to FSM government and NGOs specializing in environmental management. In order to capture this direct assistance the Table includes the operational budgets for international and regional organizations. For example, grants that are provided by the Micronesia Conservation Trust (MCT) to NGOs are listed in the donor column next to that NGO. Additionally, in the section for international/regional organizations MCT’s budget for FSM operations is separate from the grants to NGOs indicated. This separation is intended to prevent double counting and provide the reader with an overview of how money is allocated and spent. Examples of international agency projects include: SPREP and SPC assistance with mainstreaming SLM into EIA processes; JICA assistance with SWM planning and recycling; Venezuela Fund Co-financing SLM for numerous activities; SPC/SOPAC assistance with IWRM project in Pohnpei; USDA NRCS working on soil conservation; FAO assistance with sustainable


agriculture and organic farming; and USFS assistance with technical expertise in vegetation mapping, land rehabilitation etc.

135. In 2013 project-based donor contributions towards NGO and government agency annual budgets amounted to US$ 1.8 million: The GEF Small Grants Program provided $151,656 throughout the FSM in financial and technical support to projects that conserve and restore the environment; The US Embassy provided the following in small projects funds for environmental and resource management: $657,641 to Chuuk; $236,501 for Kosrae, $314,716 for Pohnpei and $333,889 for Yap; and, the Japanese Embassy provided $61,000 in funding for piggery projects on dry litter, specifically for purchasing wood chippers; and, the Australian Embassy provided a total of $63,150 in small project grants to programs in the four States. Given that these contributions are project-based and vary annually these contributions are not fully factored into the baseline presented in Table 9.

136. Despite existing investments and activities under the business-as-usual scenario: 1) the natural environment will continue to be degraded and ecosystem services will continue to be degraded due to anthropogenic pressures and poor land management practices; and 2) existing PAs will remain poorly managed and under-funded, without a strong central coordination hub. The long-term solution is, therefore, to implement a ridge-to-reef approach that combines an ecosystem-based framework for sustainable land management regime with a functional, representative and sustainable national system of terrestrial and coastal PAs on the High Islands of the FSM. The barriers to the attainment of the long term solution are discussed in the Long-term solution and barriers to achieving the solution


PART II: Strategy

PROJECT RATIONALE AND POLICY CONFORMITY

Fit with the GEF Focal Area Strategy and Strategic Programme

137. Component 1 is aligned to the Land Degradation (Desertification and Deforestation) Strategy – LD Objective 3: “Reduce Pressures on Natural Resources from Competing Land Uses in the wider Landscape” – through capacity development to improve decision-making in management of production landscapes to ensure maintenance of ecosystem services important for the global environment and for people’s livelihoods, and avoiding deforestation and forest degradation. Component 2 addresses the GEF’s Biodiversity Focal Area Objective 1 “Improve sustainability of PA Systems” and Outcome 1.1: “Improved management effectiveness of (existing and) new protected areas”. The project will also directly contribute to IW Focal Area’s Objective 1: “Catalyze multi-state cooperation to balance conflicting water users in trans-boundary surface and groundwater basins while considering climate variability and change” under Output 1.3 “Innovative solutions implemented for reduced pollution, improved water use efficiency, sustainable fisheries with right-based management, IWRM, water supply protection in SIDS, and aquifer and catchment protection” through the project’s activities under Component 2 on pollution reduction in the streams of selected sites.

Table 10 GEF focal area outcome and indicators

GEF 5 Biodiversity Focal Area Objective

Expected Focal Area Outcomes Expected Focal Area Outputs

BD1 Improve the sustainability of Protected Area Systems.

Outcome 1.1: Improved management effectiveness of existing and new protected areas.

Indicator 1.1 Protected area management effectiveness score as recorded by Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool: Average METT score for 40 PAs increased from 55 to 65

Output 1.1 New protected areas and coverage of unprotected ecosystems: 13 new PAs proclaimed covering 11799 ha of marine (lagoon and reef) and 5589 ha terrestrial ecosystems.


GEF 5 Biodiversity Focal Area Objective

Expected Focal Area Outcomes Expected Focal Area Outputs

LD3 Reduce pressures on natural resources from competing land uses in the wider landscape.

Outcome 3.2: Integrated landscape management practices adopted by local communities

Indicator 3.2 Application of integrated natural resource management (INRM) practices in wider landscapes: ILMP developed covering 55,000ha of the FSM High Islands.

Output 3.1 Integrated land management plans developed and implemented: ILMP developed covering 55,000 ha of the FSM High Islands.

Output 3.3 Appropriate actions to diversify the financial resource base: A Making the Case Strategy has been developed and implemented.

IW1 Catalyse multi-state cooperation to balance conflicting water users in trans-boundary surface and groundwater basins while considering climate variability and change

Outcome 1.3: Innovative solutions implemented for reduced pollution, improved water use efficiency, sustainable fisheries with rights-based management, IWRM, water supply protection in SIDS, and aquifer and catchment protection

Indicator 1.3: Measurable water related results from local demonstrations.

Output 1.3 Technologies and measures implemented in local demonstrations and investments: 5% of piggeries on the High Islands converted to dry-litter systems.

RATIONALE AND SUMMARY OF GEF ALTERNATIVE

138. The FSM is still experiencing very high rates of ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss, particularly in the aquatic environments, despite numerous interventions to improve capacities to manage biodiversity.

139. The drivers of this degradation and biodiversity loss are deforestation and fragmentation of forests in the form of forest clearance to allow for urbanization, infrastructure development, home building, in-filling, commercial agricultural expansion, and small-scale logging for timber and firewood. Mangrove forests have been depleted through expansion of coastal infrastructure, increased settlements in littoral areas, and the harvesting of trees for timber and firewood. Overfishing and overhunting has been identified as the most urgent and critical threat across marine and terrestrial areas of interest for conservation in all the states and this is exacerbated by unsustainable fishing inensities. Pollution in the form of farm waste from piggeries and soil erosion is a major cause of land and water pollution (including freshwater, estuarine and marine). Invasive species have led to the extinction of several endemic species. In addition climate change is predicted to vary widely and this will exacerbate existing natural resource and sustainable development challenges. The impact of the existing unsustainable agricultural practices and unplanned development will be further compromised by the limitations of government to effectively implement its programs and policies.


140. Biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation could continue at pace if FSM does not strengthen its capacity for integrated land use planning, implementation of its existing programs and policies, protected area management effectiveness and rehabilitation activities to promote ecosystem resilience.

141. Both government and civil society organizations are playing important roles in biodiversity management and integrated land-use planning, however it is recognized that they require additional tools and capacity building interventions to address the scale of the sustainable development challenges in FSM. Government capacity requires strengthening and support to manage ecosystems, work with landowners and communities, and to facilitate co-ordination between government institutions which regulate land and natural resources use. This project is designed to address these particular challenges.

142. The project will work in four States in global biodiversity hotspots and national priority areas for biodiversity conservation that are under threat, namely: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae States.

143. The project is in line with GEF Biodiversity Focal Area, Strategic Objective 1 (Improve the sustainability of Protected Area Systems); Land Degradation Focal Area Strategic Objective 3 (Reduce pressures on natural resources from competing land uses in the wider landscape); and, International Water Strategic Objective 1 (Catalyse multi-state cooperation to balance conflicting water users in trans-boundary surface and groundwater basins while considering climate variability and change. It will specifically contribute to: BD Outcome 1.1 by improving management effectiveness of existing and new protected areas thourgh working in 27 existing PAs and proclaiming 13 new PAs adding 17,388 to the national PAN; LD 3 Outcome 3.2 by developing and implementing 4 ILMPss; and, IW1 Outcome 1.3 by converting 5% of existing piggeries on the High Islands to the innovative dry litter technology.

144. This project is designed to engineer a paradigm shift in the approach to and management of natural resources from an ad-hoc species/site/problem centric approach to a holistic ecosystem-based management “ridge to reef” approach guided by planning and management process that are informed by actual data. The shift to an ecosystem-based approach within National and State government will ensure that whole island systems are managed to enhance ecosystem goods and services, to conserve globally important biodiversity and to sustain local livelihoods.

145. The project will promote an integrated approach towards fostering sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation by seeking greater awareness, knowledge and participation of all stakeholders in achieving a greater balance between environmental management and development needs. In doing so it will reduce conflicting land-uses and land-use practices, and improve the sustainability of terrestrial and marine management so as to maintain the flow of vital ecosystem services and sustain the livelihoods of local communities. Further, the project will demonstrate sustainable land management practices testing new management measures, as needed, to reduce existing environmental stressors and institutional limitations. The project will also enhance the FSM’s capacities to


effectively manage its protected areas estate as well as increase the terrestrial and marine coverage of the PA system on the High Islands.

PROJECT GOAL, OBJECTIVE, OUTCOMES AND OUTPUTS/ACTIVITIES

146. The project’s goal is to implement an integrated “Ridge to Reef” approach to enhance ecosystem services, to conserve globally important biodiversity and to sustain local livelihoods in the FSM.

147. The project objective is to strengthen local, State and National capacities and actions to implement an integrated ecosystems management through “ridge to reef” approach on the High Islands of the four States of the FSM.

148. To achieve the above objective, significant barriers, identified in the barrier analysis (see Section I, Part I), will have to be overcome to address the problem and its root causes. With this in mind the project’s intervention has been organized in two components (also in line with the concept presented at PIF stage) and will be implemented in the high islands of all four States at multiple spatial scales from the site to municipal or landscape level.

149. The two components are as follows:

Component 1: Integrated Ecosystems Management and Rehabilitation on the High Islands of the FSM to enhance Ridge to Reef Connectivity, or Sustainable Land-use Management (Outcome 1); and

Component 2: Management Effectiveness enhanced within new and existing PAs on the High Islands of FSM as part of R2R approach, or Protected Area Management (Outcome 2).

150. The site interventions will be undertaken by National and State departments, NGOs and community organization, whilst implementation will be undertaken by project implementation partners. Linkages and learning between all stakeholders will be facilitated through the Project Implementation Unit and a shared learning network managed as part of the R2R Project. The principle implementing-agent of this project is the OEEM. The OEEM will be assisted at the National and State level by the 17 partner organizations:

Table 11. Summary of R2R project government roles.

Government AgencySLM PA

National:

1. Office of Environment and Emergency Management (OEEM)

2. Department of Resources and Development Division of Resource and Development, Agriculture Program and Marine Program (R&D)

State:Yap 10. Department of Resources and 11. Environmental Protection Agency


Development 12. Yap Community Action Program (YapCAP)

Chuuk3. Department of Agriculture

4. Department of Marine Resources5. Environmental Protection Agency

Pohnpei 8. Environmental Protection Agency6. Department of Land and Natural

Resources

7. Department of Public SafetyKosrae 9. Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority

151. Activities under these two components will focus on:

Working with National and State public institutions and agencies (NGOs) to develop systemic, institutional and individual capacity for implementing SLM, and establishing and administering PAs;

Working with State level public institutions and agencies to develop institutional and individual capacity for site-based and landscape-level SLM and PA planning, implementation, management, enforcement and monitoring; and,

Site-level engagement with local communities and individuals to implement SLM practices and improve PA management effectiveness.

152. The outcomes proposed in respect of Components 1 and 2 and the outputs necessary to achieve the outcomes are captured below in table format. This is followed by a description of the high-level activities necessary to support the achievement of each of the outputs and outcomes.

Component 1: Integrated Ecosystems Management and Rehabilitation on the High Islands of the FSM to enhance Ridge to Reef Connectivity (Outcome 1)

153. Integrated Land Management Plans (ILMPs) will be developed at the High Island-scale of the four States providing an ecosystem-based forward planning to promote the optimal allocation of land resources to generate development benefits and critical environmental benefits in tandem. In order to ensure these ILMPs are based on solid and up-to-date information, Strategic Environmental Assessment for the 4 States will be undertaken. The SEA will incorporate previous work undertaken to identify ABS as well as new primary biodiversity research, environmental data collection, and systematic spatial assessment. The SEA will also provide land-use practice recommendations for avoiding and mitigating the land degradation impacts of the main economic sectors based on an explicit quantitative and target-driven analysis combined with detailed description of sustainable land-use guidelines.

154. An open-access information system will support INRM by making key spatial datasets available to decision-makers, NGO’s and the wider public. Biodiversity information will be analysed (e.g. IUCN threatened status assessed for all taxa) and collated into baseline popular texts or biodiversity profile for all States to be used as a training, decision support and awareness tool during and after the project. Through this information and the INRM


‘spatial decision support systems’, any planner, developer or individual will be able to determine what aspects of biodiversity are most threatened and how to identify them; determine where critical habitats are; which threats these habitats are suffering; whether a given site has a PA status or proposed status; what the recommended land-use activities are; and, what the recommended best practice guidelines are for the major land-use types. This framework will create an enabling environment, within which legislation pertaining to the sustainable development of the FSM can be enacted, and EIA procedures and due diligence can be enforced.

155. The creation of a SLM coordination mechanism (multi-stakeholder planning platform) that brings together the different institutions with sectoral responsibilities, for the development and conservation of the High Islands, as well as the CSOs and private sector/local community partners will be explored for each State. This coordination mechanism will look to adapting existing initiatives (e.g. Environmental Management and Sustainable Development Council) before considering creating a new structure. Work of multi-stakeholder committee will promote a unified approach to SLM across agencies and seek optimal land-use use outcomes of land in terms of biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services and social well-being and economic development. The spatial planning tools and the coordination mechanism will enable the greater participation of local stakeholders in land-use planning and decision-making processes thereby increasing the likelihood of successful implementation of the plans. From the point of view of capacity building for SLM, the project will strengthen the management capabilities of the different management authorities to conduct land-use planning. All of these actions will ensure that the terrestrial and surrounding marine areas are planned as an integral part of the wider land/seascape of the High Islands.

156. To build the business case for increasing the baseline financial resources flows supporting the sector, a “Making the Case” strategy will be developed based on an appraisal of the monetary and intrinsic values of the natural environment to production sectors, the State and the general public good. The harmonized messaging developed through the primary research and associated marketing campaign will be used by all R2R implementing partners to speak with one clear message to foster awareness around the value of ecosystems and leverage greater public and donor investment in environmental management.

157. Rehabilitation of critical ecosystems identified through the SEA/ILMP process will support the management of threatened species and ecosystems to enhance ecological resilience, landscape connectivity, reduce erosion, improve water quantity and quality, and reduce coastal flooding/erosion.

158. Lessons learned from applying and enforcing SLM in cultural landscapes will be shared regionally through the regional R2R program and other regional learning and peer-learning networks.


Table 12 Component 1 outcomes and outputs

OUTCOMES OUTPUTS

Outcome 1

Integrated Ecosystems Management and Rehabilitation on the High Islands of the FSM to enhance Ridge to Reef Connectivity

1.1 Four Integrated Landscape Management Plans (ILMPs), each covering the High Islands of FSM, are developed and implemented for the High Islands of the FSM:

1.1.1 Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA) conducted for the High Islands.

1.1.2 Climate change adaptation strategies for the High Islands integrated in to the ILMPs and SEAs.

1.1.3 Spatially based decision support systems for INRM are developed and made available for use in EIA, policy development, multi-sector ecosystem-based planning & management.

1.1.4 Multi-sector planning forum is established to facilitate the development of ILMPs for the highlands in each state

1.2 Institutions with sectoral responsibilities for the development and conservation of the High Islands, together with relevant CSOs and community partners, are capacitated for coordinated action at the wider landscapes on SLM

1.3 Additional finances for SLM investments (including PA management costs) secured and existing contributions to the environmental sector to support SLM practices aligned.

1.3.1 Making the Case for SLM through valuation of goods and services of natural systems as well as different SLM practices is conducted as a basis for brokering new public and donor finance for BD conservation and SLM

1.4 Management and rehabilitation of critical ecosystems implemented to enhance functional connectivity, reduce erosion, improve water quantity and quality and reduce coastal flooding.

159. The following paragraphs expand on each of the four Component 1 outcomes and describe the outputs and high-level activities necessary to achieve these outcomes.

Output 1.1: Four Community-based Integrated Landscape Management Plans (ILMPs) developed and implemented for the High Islands of the FSM.

160. The purpose of the ILMP is to translate the guiding ecosystem-based management framework and concepts embodied in the R2R approach into a set of tangible tools recommendations and guidelines that can be used to inform land-use planning and decision making in a way that promotes environmental sustainability.

161. ILMPs will be developed and mainstreamed for each High Island in the FSM (Yap, Pohnpei, Kosrae, and islands of Tol, Moen (Weno) and Fefan in Chuuk, total = 62,133ha).


The ILMPs are also referred to as Integrated Environmental Management Plans (IEMPs) in some states. The PIU will outsource the technical components of the SEA/ILMP to a suitably qualified international expert in spatial biodiversity planning. The R2R National Project Steering Committees will guide the high-level activities of the SEA Team and act as the primary stakeholder interface (see Output 1.1.4). At the State-level the project technical committee will support and guide the SEA Team within the State. The ILMP will be implemented at the whole high islands except for Chuuk which will be 3 islands level and therefore building the relationship between the State-level R2R SLM Co-ordinator and the local Municipalities will be central to the success of the intervention. The ILMP is intended as a land-use forward planning and development tool to guide State and Municipal decision makers in, amongst others, the EIA process. It will also be applicable to identifying site-level SLM interventions such as rehabilitation projects (including rehabilitation of mangrove/upland forest, removal of alien invasives). The ILMP will only cover land-use in the terrestrial environment (including mangrove forests). Use guidelines for the marine environment are covered in the protected area management-planning outcome (Outcome 2.9).

162. The ILMP development process will include:

The multi-sector planning forum (Output 1.1.4) with input from the international consultant leading the development of the SEAs and ILMPs will agree on a national guideline for ILMP development. These guidelines will be revisited during the course of the project to integrate and share lessons learned from the R2R process.

Communities in each Municipality need to be actively engaged in the ILMP development process at all levels from conceptualization, development to implementation planning and monitoring.

Where possible existing ILMP/IEMP products or guidelines in each State should be used as the starting-point for this process (e.g. Kosrae Land Use Plan (KLUP)).

The primary product of the ILMP will be an environmental sensitivity map and associated land-use guidelines indicating recommended land-uses for any given zone.

The ILMP will include (a) environmental health (biodiversity indicators, stressor indicators [e.g. point pollution sources, piggeries, dumps]) and (b) ILMP implementation monitoring plans with recommendations for key indicators. Baseline surveys of the environmental health indicators will be conducted in partnership with the monitoring component of the R2R (Output 2.11). The monitoring plans will also include recommendations for collection of additional biodiversity and environmental data. (c) Integrate information on climate change/environmental risk and adaptation strategies.

The ILMP will include a comprehensive section on best practice recommended land-use guidelines (e.g. a standard for burial practice, a standard for sewage disposal/runoff, watershed management through IWRM) and specifications for location of infrastructure and activities in the landscape (e.g. location of piggeries relative to water sources, building setback lines, building and maintaining dumpsites). To develop these guidelines one or more local consultants will be engaged to conduct research on appropriate land-use activities and guidelines that are compatible with the ILMP and R2R environmental sustainability objectives.


A Biodiversity Profile describing the biodiversity and ecosystems of the FSM will accompany the land-use maps and guidelines to serve as an information tool for raising awareness around biodiversity in the FSM.

Output 1.1.1: Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA) conducted for the High Islands.

163. Strategic environmental assessment (SEA) is a systematic decision support process, aiming to ensure that environmental and possibly other sustainability aspects are considered effectively in policy, plan and programme making. In the R2R the SEA will be the process whereby biodiversity, environmental and land-use information will be assembled and subjected to a spatial analysis to provide the primary informant in the development of the ILMP.

164. The SEA team will comprise the National SLM Program Manager and an international consultant working with SEA State teams lead by the respective State SLM Program Managers. The multi-sector planning forum (Output 1.5) in each State will provide a reference group during the development of the SEA. The SEA will potentially be the largest component of the R2R as a large number of people will contribute to the component particularly scientific experts will be engaged to collect primary data.

165. The SEA will not include a community participation component. The role of the SEA is simply to establish the baseline integrated environmental informants to the ILMP. The ILMP will use the outputs from the SEA to engage with communities around land-use planning and sustainability issues.

166. Given the much of the data available for planning in FSM is dated an important function of the SEA will be to undertake a 1-2 year biodiversity data gathering program aimed at conducting a rapid biodiversity appraisal of each State.

167. The SEA will include:

The first function of the SEA team, in collaboration with the multi-sector planning forum, will be to conduct a spatial data needs analysis to determine the status quo of data in each state and determine protocols for access existing data and collecting new data. Data that will be collected for the SEA include:

o Collation of all historic biodiversity datao Survey of endemic and particularly endangered terrestrial species (plants, reptiles,

molluscs, birds, mammals, fish);o Vegetation map based on phytosociological sampling of vegetation and using the

latest satellite imagery;o Land-cover mapo Land-use pressure map or biodiversity threats mapo Digital terrain model (DEM)

The SEA team will work closely with the R2R Information Management Officer to ensure that the data collected as part of this project is properly catalogued in an information management system.


The SEA will use a GIS-based systematic spatial biodiversity planning and multiple criterion spatial decision analysis to develop environmental sensitivity maps as the baseline informants for the ILMPs.

As a R2R legacy product and baseline information tool for land-use planning the biodiversity data assembled as part of the SEA process will be used to produce a reference book on the biodiversity of the FSM (Output 1.1.3).

The data-gathering component of the SEA will work closely with the capacity building component (Output 1.2) to exploit training and learning opportunities arising from the biodiversity inventory work. Visiting scientists will be required to use college interns for field sampling and laboratory work. Visiting scientists will be required to give short-courses (half to one day) aimed at SLM and PA managers on identifying species.

Output 1.1.2: Climate change adaptation strategies developed for the High Islands and integrated in to the ILMPs and SEAs.

168. This output will ensure that the existing climate change adaptation strategies developed for the FSM are fully integrated into the SEA and ILMPs together with clear spatial assessment/representation of impacts; guidelines for development planning; and, appropriate management response recommendations to different risks.

169. Activities will include: Create awareness around CC issues and possible impacts on communities through the

R2R communication strategy (Output 1.2). Ensure integration of regional CC adaptation guidelines (e.g. PACC Adaptation Plan) in

the ILMP land-use guidelines where appropriate. Catalogue existing information on Climate Change adaptation strategies, scientific

data's and make available to resource managers.

Output 1.1.3 : Spatially-based decision support systems for INRM are developed and made available for use in EIA, policy development, multi-sector ecosystem-based planning & management.

170. Linked to the development of the SEA and ILMP will be the development of a set of land-use planning spatial decision support tools to assist users to apply the ILMP in land-use decision and policy making processes. The SEA team will be responsible for developing the tool with input from the multi-sector planning forum.

171. The INRM spatial decision support tool will comprise the following basic components:

a. A printed map indicating environmental sensitivity in the landscape.b. A land-use planning guidebook accompanying the map aimed at practitioners providing

interpretation of the zones indicated on the map; guidance on interpreting the map and land-use planning and decision making considerations and processes; guidance on appropriate land-uses recommended for each zone; and, detailed best practice land-use guidelines for different land-use types/sectors.

c. A detailed technical report detailing the input data and methodology used to prepare the SEA and the primary ILMP map. The technical report will also contain record of the stakeholder consultation process.


Philip Desmet, 12/24/14,

This CC activity is in the PIF. I am happy to remove it. It does seem like a bit of an “add on”. Either way, incorporating CC adapation strategies into the SEA/ILMP will be part of the TOR for the SEA/ILMP.


Need to bring out the link to BD and SLM – as is it does not necessarily fall under the work supported by these focal areas

d. A GIS database containing all the spatial and biodiversity data used to develop the SEA and ILMP to be curated by the PIU Information Manager during the life of project. The long-term information management arrangements for all aspects of the R2R project are addressed under Output 2.4.3.

e. An annotated Biodiversity Profile briefly describing the biodiversity and ecosystems of the FSM to provide an up-to-date and scientifically accurate baseline source of biodiversity information for land-use practitioners, scholars, decision makers, resource users and teachers. The prospectus will be compiled with the assistance of local and international biodiversity experts. It will briefly describe each native and alien species found in FSM together with observation-based distribution data; ethnobotanical/local uses; photograph/illustration where available; and, include sections describing the habitats and vegetation units found in each State. Identification keys will also be included to assist with identification of taxa necessary for monitoring of biodiversity indicators. The prospectus will also include an up-to-date IUCN threat assessment for all native plants, terrestrial and freshwater molluscs, fish (particularly freshwater), reptiles, mammals and birds. Where possible vegetation unit descriptions should be based on floristic survey data. Up to date habitat/vegetation and land cover maps produced in the SEA will accompany the descriptions. The Biodiversity Profile will be published as a stand-alone electronic book unless outside funding secured to publish the book in hard copy. Collection of the primary biodiversity data necessary to complete the Biodiversity Profile will be conducted as part of the primary input data gathering process for the SEA (Output 1.1.1), the systematic conservation planning component (Output 2.2); and, biodiversity monitoring components (Output 2.4.3) of this project. Essentially all these components will be contributing to and drawing from the same biodiversity data collection process.

Output 1.1.4: Multi-sector planning forum is established to facilitate the development of ILMPs for the highlands in each state

172. The National Project Steering Committee and State Project Steering Committees will act as the multi-sector planning forum to facilitate the development of the ILMPs. At the National-level the project-implementing partners listed in Table 11 will form the committee core with other National, regional or State role-players (Table 7) invited to participate specifically around the development of the ILMPs. The mandate of the PSC with respect to facilitating the development of the ILMPs will be to:

Facilitate communication between State agencies and industry and land managers. Advise State legislatures on SLM, ILMP and IEMP matters. Cooperate with R2R learning networks to identify natural resource managers within State

agencies and production sectors to target for capacity building and awareness training around FSMs biodiversity, SLM, EIA, and the development, use (including GIS training) and interpretation of the SEA, ILMP products developed by the R2R as well as IEMPs.

Serve as the primary stakeholder focus group informing the development of State-level ILMP and IEMP.

Promote standardizing of EIAs through adoption of national/regional guidelines and building awareness around using the EIA process in development planning.


Develop and implement a strategy for sustainably reviving the Natural Resource Advisory Committee in each State.

Output 1.2: Institutions with sectoral responsibilities for the development and conservation of the High Islands, together with relevant CSOs and community partners, are capacitated for coordinated action at the wider landscapes on SLM

173. Long-term sustainability and impact of the R2R intervention is dependent on investment in capacity building of staff and institution to more effectively achieve SLM and PA outcomes now and into the future. Capacity development is a core R2R activity that cuts across all project outputs. All R2R capacity building and regional interaction related activities are grouped here into a single project component given that: there are clear thematic linkages between the different capacity building programs in SLM and PAs; the recipients of capacity building are mostly the same across outcomes; and, it is more efficient to coordinate and deliver all communication, outreach, capacity building, networking related activities through a holistic strategy under a single entity thereby avoiding duplication of activities, lowering costs and promoting harmonization of messaging to stakeholders.

174. The R2R communication and capacity development program will be developed, implemented and co-ordinated by the PIU, specifically the Project Manager with assistance from the National SLM and PA Co-ordinators, and State-level staff. The Project Manager will facilitate the development of a R2R Communication and Capacity Development Strategy in collaboration with the key-implementing partners and regional role-players and which is aligned to existing National and regional initiatives especially the MC and existing learning networks such as PIMPAC, MMIC, MIC and LMME.

175. The strategy should focus on addressing the shortcomings in the R2R SLM and PA Capacity tracking tools. Low-scoring aspects of these tracking tools are where the R2R capacity building activities will focus interventions. The strategy will include:

Provision for regional interaction and training with the R2R Regional Project (5395) specifically sharing lessons with the region, and bringing regional science and technology lessons to FSM through participation in the Science, Technology and Resources Network of SOPAC via (1) the Regional Science and Technology Committee (RSTC); (2) the annual regional Scientific Conference; and, (3) postgraduate training.

Collaboration with the UNDP MCO and UNDP JPO around identifying and harnessing synergies between various GEF regional programs.

Collaboration with regional NGO role-players (e.g. SOPAC, SPREP, MERIP, PREL, RARE, SPC, IOM, etc.) around identifying synergies, aligning learning networks and building capacity development programs.

An assessment of capacity needs audit amongst stakeholders related to R2R activates. An assessment of training capacity with a strategy for overcoming limitation identified. Key implementing partners and what sub-components they will be responsible for; Existing capacity building initiatives that can link to the R2R effort and elaborate in what

form the synergy will be realized;


Clear project capacity building indicators based on the UNDP SLM and PA tracking tools with which to monitor and assess outcomes; and,

Elaborate on capacity building opportunities that the project will make use of: internships for college students and collage leavers; work exchanges between agencies; public media such as radio, newspapers and TV; mentorship utilizing retired professionals; demonstration sites/projects; and, scholarships for college students.

Explore opportunities for professional certification or credits arising from trainings. Have explicit linkages to the communication, peer-learning and lessons-learning

components of the R2R so that there is an active feedback loop between training implementation and lesson learning/sharing.

During the life of the R2R project, the capacity building strategy will be subject to annual review to allow lessons learned and new strategies to be integrated into the overall strategy.

176. Implementation of the strategy will be via project staff (State SLM and PA Co-ordinators), partners and other stakeholders (e.g. Rare, SPREP, SPC) with the PIU fulfilling a co-ordinating/secretariat role where necessary. The program will be closely linked to the National and regional communication and peer-learning program. All R2R communication, learning and capacity building programs will be coordinated and facilitated through the national program

177. R2R outcomes grouped under the capacity building component include:

Building capacity at the State, NGO and CBO levels around planning for and implementing SLM

Building capacity amongst National and State entities to coordinate and perform PAN management functions.

Building the capacity of PA managers (state and community) to better manage PAs. Building capacity of Communities to implement on-the-ground SLM activities.

178. Examples of specific SLM related capacity building topics under already identified by stakeholders include:

Build local capacity to be able to identify plant diseases and insects (Plant pathologist and entomologist)

Training for sustainable forest management (Erosion Control Practices) Pesticides Certification (Trainers training and certification) Training on the use silt defences and oil spill booms Crops descriptor and characterization specialty Identification and eradication of invasive alien species Establishment and management of dry litter piggery as well as other sustainable

agricultural practices such as organic and biodynamic farming, sloping agricultural land technology (SALT) farming.


Output 1.3: Additional finances for SLM investments (including PA management costs) secured and existing contributions to the environmental sector to support SLM practices aligned.

179. This output will be concerned with making clear the rationale, or “Making the Case”, for why governments should in the natural environment. This will be achieved through valuing the goods and services of natural systems as well as different SLM practices to provide a basis for brokering new public finance for biodiversity conservation and SLM. Through a clearer understanding of the value of ecosystems to society, the government will be better positioned to make informed and strategic decisions and funding allocations regarding environmental management in the FSM.

180. The MC has already established an endowment to provide a sustainable finance mechanism for PAs in the Micronesia region. This project will address two challenges facing PAs in terms of securing sustainable financing:

Increasing the baseline Compact and State Congress funding to support baseline PA management functions; and,

Enabling PAs to access funding from the MC endowment.

181. With respect to the second challenge the R2R Project Component 2 dealing with PA management will increase the management effectiveness of PAs through the planned capacity building and planning, monitoring and enforcement enhancement activities (Component 2 of this project). These actions will improve the METT score of individual PAs and thus enable them to meet the criteria to be eligible to receive MC endowment funds.

182. To address the baseline National and State funding of gaps Output 1.3.1 will (1) conduct a valuation of the FSM ecosystem good and services and (2) develop a communications strategy for “marketing” investment in environmental management and biodiversity conservation to key National and State stakeholders with the goal being to leverage greater baseline government funding. All aspects of the R2R project will draw on this information and strategy in communicating results of the R2R project to stakeholders. A key responsibility of the R2R Project Manager will be to implement the Making the Case strategy.

Output 1.3.1: Making the Case for SLM and PAs through valuation of goods and services of natural systems as well as different SLM practices is conducted.

183. Securing long-term financial and policy commitment from government for the environment will only happen when the full value of the environment to social well-being and economic sustainability are understood and appreciated by politicians and their constituencies. The objective of the Making the Case (MTC) is to lay the sustainability groundwork for all components of the R2R by rebuilding in the mind of government and the FSM society the connection between a healthy environment and investing in their management.

184. The MTC output has two major activity components: (1) valuation of the monetary and non-monetary values of the FSMs environment’s goods and services; and, (2) developing a


messaging, communication and marketing strategy to create awareness and influence decision makers into investing greater financial resources into SLM and PAs. The MTC valuation will be lead by an international consultant contracted through the PIU. The valuation will include a review of international current thinking and practice around conceptualizing and assessing the value of the environment to society and economies. Based on this assessment a research program will be developed and implemented to gather primary data to provide quantitative examples in support of valuation concepts. The second component of the MTC activity will be to develop a marketing strategy (MTC Strategy) to promote the findings of the valuation study amongst government and the broader FSM and regional communities. Key elements of the MTC Strategy will be to: (1) develop positive messaging directed at influencing politicians to invest more in SLM and PAs; (2) identify key individuals within governments and the broader stakeholder group to target with the MTC messaging; and, (3) develop consistent MTC messaging and material for all R2R stakeholders to use in their organizational communication.

185. Communication of the MTC findings will be through: (1) direct communication between R2R Project leaders and target individuals; (2) regular R2R communication channels and learning/regional forums; (3) project partners incorporating the messaging into their organizational marketing and communication strategies; and, (4) Incorporating the messaging into fund raising activities specifically to support the MC Endowment sustainable finance plan.

Output 1.4: Management and rehabilitation of critical ecosystems implemented to enhance functional connectivity, reduce erosion, improve water quantity and quality and reduce coastal flooding.

186. The objective of this output is to (1) engineer widespread uptake of SLM agricultural practices in the landscape; and, (b) conduct ecological rehabilitation of environmentally or biologically important degraded ecosystems covering at least 350ha upland and 50ha mangrove forest.

187. Agricultural SLM : The project will focus specifically on furthering the uptake of dry litter piggery technology in the High Islands. Other important SLM agricultural activities such as the “Grow Low” sakau program and SALT farming will be support through the projects communication and capacity building activities but will not be the focus of a specific project activity.

188. The dry litter piggery program aims to engineer landscape level uptake of the technology in order to unlock the environment, human health and economic benefits of the farming technology. The project will initially operate in four catchments across the FSM (one catchment per High Islands; Table 27, Map 7) The program will consist of five components:

a. Conduct a lesson learning process to determine and understand the social and economic barriers preventing widespread uptake of the technology to date, and identify novel approaches or adaptation of current approaches that will overcome these barriers.


b. Build awareness amongst farmers and communities through the R2R communication strategy around (a) the negative impacts of regular piggeries on the environment and human health and (b) the economic/environmental/health benefits of dry litter piggeries, and the opportunities available through the R2R to convert existing piggeries to dry litter piggeries.

c. Provide technical extension services to farmers and training opportunities to assist with the conversion to and management of dry litter pigpens.

d. Bridge the capital barrier for making the conversion by working with the Awak piggery project and the Piggery Waste Management Revolving Fund to up-scale the revolving fund to operate across the whole of the FSM.

e. Scientifically monitor (a) farmers experiences successes/failures; (b) environmental impacts of the program specifically water quality; and, (c) agricultural benefits such as value of compost to farmers or changes in agricultural outputs as a result of compost addition.

189. Ecological rehabilitation: The project will physically restore degraded upland forest and mangrove ecosystems that are identified as being important for maintaining critical biodiversity or ecological processes. The ecological rehabilitation activities will comprise four subcomponents:

a. Systematic identification of rehabilitation sites that optimise allocation of rehabilitation resources to maximise ecosystem service and biodiversity conservation returns has not been undertaken. This will be conducted as part of the SEA and ILMP processes. Selected sites will be in or adjacent to existing or new PAs, or else other parts of the landscapes identified as being critical ecosystems. At least 350ha of upland forest and 50ha of mangrove across the FSM will be rehabilitated through the R2R project.

b. Research and develop guidelines for applied ecological rehabilitation of the FSMs terrestrial ecosystems. There are examples in the FSM of State/donor funded rehabilitation rehabilitation work conducted using alien species to “rehabilitate” areas (e.g. Acacia confusa used in Yap). This is absolutely unacceptable in the R2R and biodiversity conservation context. The development of the rehabilitation guidelines will use the best available scientific evidence, and contribute to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem service goals (i.e. using only native species). The guidelines development activity will also identify research gaps and implementation bottleneck that the R2R project will need to address in order for rehabilitation to be successful (e.g. identification knowledge of alien or native species, availability of native species planting material, etc.). Development of these guidelines will contribute to the land-use practice guidelines being developed in the SEA process (Output 1.1.1). The guideline development process will also determine indicators for rehabilitation and establish the baseline that will link with the monitoring components of the project (Outcome 2.4.3) and the outcome indicators of the R2R

c. In partnership with local communities apply the best practice ecological rehabilitation techniques to physically restore habitat in identified sites.

d. Scientific monitoring of rehabilitation sites and reporting of results to the PIU.


Component 2: Management Effectiveness enhanced within new and existing PAs on the High Islands of FSM as part of R2R approach (Outcome 2)

190. This component focuses on strengthening the management effectiveness of existing and new PAs. The project will support the strengthening of State legislation concerning biodiversity conservation in order to ensure that a standardized approach to PA management and assistance to State agencies and communities managing PAs is followed. The project will assist each of the 4 States governments to strengthen their institutional arrangements to promote effective PA management, knowledge management, sharing and enforcement.

191. As part of this process of capacity development and standardization, the Department of Resources and Development at the National level as well as the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Agriculture and the Department of Marine Resources from Chuuk State; Department of Land and Natural Resources and Department of Public Safety from Pohnpei State; Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority from Kosrae State; and Department of Resources and Development from Yap State will be capacitated in centralized cost-effective PA management functions such as planning (especially participatory planning processes and community engagement, systematic conservation planning), finance, legal affairs and enforcement.

192. A standardised PA reporting and performance monitoring system will be introduced across the 4 States and a PA management information system will be established which will host biodiversity, finance and other information. A standardized PA reporting and performance monitoring system has been one of the main outcome areas under the Micronesia Challenge. This will be coupled with conceptual development of a larger biodiversity and spatial information management system (IMS) building on the National government, NGOs and regional partners that are already actively involved with these activities. The end-goal of the IMS will also archive all spatial and biodiversity data gathered as part of the SLM components SEA activities. Capacity building in information management, GIS and spatial analysis will form the focus of a national peer-learning network and R2R project support to the States.

193. To avoid duplication and to continue to support consistent monitoring, the R2R will provide assistance to further develop and refine the tools and procedures already under development through the MC. Three concurrent activity-areas to further strengthen current efforts are proposed by the MC. These are: (1) Further and strengthened implementation of the Protected Area Management Effectiveness Tools (MPAME and GEF METT); (2) Socioeconomic monitoring including economic valuation of PAs and SLM to support the Making the Case strategy; and, (3) Biological/Ecological Monitoring to support selected indicators. The R2R will support implementation of those parts of the total monitoring strategy proposed by the MC that directly relate to the R2R Outcomes and Strategic Framework indicators.

194. New terrestrial and marine protected areas will be established and gazetted covering an area of at least 16,000 ha across the four States of the FSM (Table 13). In total 40 PAs will be targeted by this project. (Table 14 and Table 25). New PAs will be equipped and adequately


staffed (paid and volunteer staff). PAs will be capacitated in effective PA management especially in PA management planning, boundary demarcation, monitoring (to feed into the centralized information systems) and enforcement.

Table 13. Summary of number and area of existing and new PAs targeted by this project.

PA Status Terrestrial or Marine Area (ha) Number of PAsExisting Marine 3154 18

Terrestrial 4444 9Existing Total 7598 27New Marine 11799 6

Terrestrial 5589 7New Total 17388 13Grand Total 24986 40

Table 14. A summary List of the Focus PAs the R2R project will be targeting.

STATE Name of PA Terrestrial or Marine

Area (ha)

PA Status

Yap Nimpal Channel Marine 79 ExistingYap Reey Marine 177 ExistingYap Riken Marine 27 ExistingYap Tamil Marine 632 ExistingYap Gargey Village Fat'earcheg Hillside Terrestrial 2 ExistingYap Gargey Village T'olo Mangrove Forest Terrestrial 2 ExistingChuuk Parem Marine 72 ExistingChuuk Oror Terrestrial 35 ExistingChuuk Ununo Terrestrial 160 ExistingChuuk Mwanukun and Neoch Marine 1058

3New

Chuuk Wichikuno (Tol) Marine 706 NewChuuk Winifurer Terrestrial 231 NewChuuk Winipot (Tol) Terrestrial 193 NewChuuk Witipon Terrestrial 2 NewPohnpei Dehpekh/Takaieu Marine 212 ExistingPohnpei Kehpara Marine 189 ExistingPohnpei Mwand (Dekehos) Marine 460 ExistingPohnpei Nahtik Marine 75 ExistingPohnpei Namwen Na Marine 71 ExistingPohnpei Namwen Naningih Marine 34 ExistingPohnpei Nanwap Marine 305 ExistingPohnpei Pwudoi Marine 139 ExistingPohnpei Sapwitik Marine 83 Existing


STATE Name of PA Terrestrial or Marine

Area (ha)

PA Status

Pohnpei Enipein Mangrove Reserve Terrestrial 955 ExistingPohnpei Pohnpei Watershed Forest Reserve (Phase I) Terrestrial 2330 ExistingPohnpei Senpehn Mangrove Reserve Terrestrial 130 ExistingPohnpei Palikir Pass Marine 180 NewPohnpei Peniou Island Marine 160 NewPohnpei Awak Watershed Basin Terrestrial 800 NewPohnpei Pohnpei Watershed Forest Reserve (Phase II) Terrestrial 4012 NewKosrae Awane Marine 131 ExistingKosrae Tafunsak Marine 59 ExistingKosrae Tukasungai Marine 278 ExistingKosrae Utwe Biosphere Reserve incl. Utwe-Walung

MPAMarine 131 Existing

Kosrae Olum Watershed Terrestrial 310 ExistingKosrae Yela Ka Forest Terrestrial 520 ExistingKosrae Pikensukar Marine 20 NewKosrae Tukunsruh Mangrove Forest Marine 150 NewKosrae Kuuplu Mangrove Forest Terrestrial 45 NewKosrae Tofol Watershed Area Terrestrial 306 New

Total Area 24986

Table 15 Component 2 outcomes and outputs

OUTCOMES OUTPUTS

Outcome 2:

Management Effectiveness enhanced within new and existing PAs on the High Islands of FSM as part of R2R approach (both marine and terrestrial)

1.1 A National and State-level Legal and Institutional Framework have been established to improve management effectiveness of PAs.

1.1.1 The National Department of Resources and Development and State PA Agencies are actively involved and capacitated to perform centralized PA management functions such as planning, finance and legal affairs cost effectively.

1.1.2 A standardized PA reporting and performance monitoring system has been implemented. And a National biodiversity/ecological monitoring and information system has been established

1.1.3 An integrated and adaptive PA management decision support system is established at State and National levels to facilitate biodiversity, financial and risk (climate change and land-use pressures) adaptive management planning and decision-making.

1.2 The PAN of the High Islands has been expanded, and existing and new PAs of the have been secured through a review and


OUTCOMES OUTPUTS

upgrading of legal protection status (gazetting of all PAs).

1.3 Management authorities (state and community) of newly established PAs are equipped and capacitated in managing PAs.

1.4 Effective site and cross-site level PA management practices promoted in new and existing PAs:

1.4.1 Improved PA management planning and boundary demarcation have been implemented

1.4.2 Improved zoning and boundary demarcation based on and aligned to the ILMP, and SEA

1.4.3 Biological/ecological monitoring systems have been implemented.

1.4.4 Enforcement of PAs has been strengthened1.4.5 Communities have been capacitated to better

management of specific land-use pressures at the site-level.

Output 2.1 : A National and State-level Legal and Institutional Framework have been established to improve management effectiveness of PAs.

195. The objective of this outcome is to review National and State PA policy and legislation and to update this where necessary to meet a common set of national PAN standards, and to review and refine roles and responsibilities for stakeholders involved in PA implementation, management, monitoring and enforcement. This outcome will develop the national policy and legislative frameworks that will facilitate streamlined and efficient technical and financial support to State level activities. The national policy will also establish the minimum standards and criteria for individual PAs to qualify as members of the national PAN, and in turn, qualify for endowment funding from the MC.

196. This output will work to address the policy, legal and institutional barriers that exist in the developing FSM PAN policy framework. Activities will include:

Further develop and implement those components of the national PAN reporting and performance monitoring system established for the MC that directly relate to achieving the Outcomes and Strategic Framework indicators of the R2R project.

Conduct a comprehensive review of and update the national Protected Areas Framework to address deficiencies, and provide States with guidelines with respect to updating and harmonising State PA legislation to reflect a common national standard. The PAN framework needs to look at organisational arrangements for securing sustainability i.e. dedicated PAN administrative functions at National and State levels.

Develop national guidelines for developing PA management plans based on adaptive management principles. This process will consider and where appropriate align with existing management planning development tools and guidelines (e.g. SPC, LMMA, PIMPAC). Related to the process the unit will lead a consultative process with PA


managers and scientist to identify a national set of biodiversity indicators with thresholds that will be used to guide PA management decision-making processes (Output 2.4).

Review the institutional framework of each State to implement the PAN effectively and provide recommendations for State Legislatures to streamline institutional structure and better define roles and responsibilities of State agencies in PAN management.

Further improve and streamline the regulations for Protected Areas (PA) at National, State, Municipality, Community and Private levels.

Establish and maintain a Protected Areas Registry, and provide States with the necessary resources to populate the registry (see Output 2.2).

Provide guidance and recommendations for improved stakeholder engagement in PA management in line with international best practice.

Procure legal services to draft State-level PA legislation based on the National PAN policy framework and international best practice, and which makes provision for gazetting of PAs on private and state-owned land, and also for the creation of conservation easements or stewardship.

Output 2.1.1 : The National Department of Resources and Development and State Agencies are actively involved and capacitated to perform centralised PA management functions such as planning, finance and legal affairs cost effectively.

197. This output forms part of the capacity building component of the R2R project.

198. Conduct work-based training of National (Top-tier) and State (Middle-tier) officials to fulfil the PAN administrative and reporting requirements (i.e. State-level PA managers reporting to National government of METT and PAN data and does not necessarily include biological monitoring). Based on lessons learned the training program will be adapted during life of the project to address new capacity needs. For the duration of the project the National PA Co-ordinator in the PIU will assume the role of National PAN Co-ordinator in R&D. Their role will be to leader and co-ordinate the capacity building process, and establish and manage the National PAN Database with inputs from the States.

Output 2.1.2: A standardised PA reporting and performance monitoring system has been implemented.

199. This output implements in each State the standardised PAN reporting and performance-monitoring system developed in Output 2.1.1.

200. During the lifespan of the R2R project, the National PA Project Manager will coordinate an annual lessons learning and sharing workshop to report on and review the PAN performance monitoring systems, and involving CBOs, NGOs, and relevant State agencies. The standardised PA reporting and performance monitoring system will be adapted based on feedback from this meeting will being.

201. The data gathered as part of this output will be used to complete the mid-term and terminal METT evaluations.


202. The R2R funded State PA Project Manager will coordinate periodic training for PA managers (State agencies, NGOs and Communities) in the implementation/use of the PAN reporting and performance monitoring system.

203. The State PA Project Manager will be responsible for coordinating and submitting State reporting and performance monitoring inputs to the National PAN unit in R&D as well as coordinating monitoring and reporting activities related to the MC.

204. The State PA Project Manager will also be responsible for liaising and cooperating with other monitoring programs such as the Micronesia Challenge (MC) Measures Group.

Output 2.1.3: An integrated and adaptive PA management decision support system is established at State and National levels to facilitate biodiversity, financial and risk (climate change and land-use pressures) adaptive management planning and decision-making.

205. This output implements in each State the integrated adaptive PA management decision support system (Output 2.1) focused at managing the PAN at the State level. Individual PA management plan development is covered under Output 2.10. The decision support system will build on and reinforce the existing MC reporting/management.

206. The decision support system will provide each State with a decision support framework for managing their PAN. This decision support system will have a hierarchical structure providing decision support for individual PAs nested within a decision support framework for the State-level management of the PAN. The decision support systems will draw management performance indicators from the PAN reporting and performance monitoring system (Output 2.3) and biodiversity conservation indicators from the National biodiversity/ecological monitoring program (Output 2.4.3). In other words the decision support system will provide the management response mechanism as indicated by the performance indicators. The response could be at the State or individual PA level.

207. A first step in the implementation of the decision support system will be a review of any existing decision support frameworks. These will have to be adapted if necessary to be inline with the national guidelines.

208. The R2R National and State PA Co-ordinators will be responsible for the development and implementation of the PA management decision support system.

Output 2.2: The PAN of the High Islands has been expanded, and existing and new PAs of the have been secured through a review and upgrading of legal protection status (gazetting of all PAs).

209. Activities will include:

All new PA focus sites will be proclaimed and gazetted in terms of each States PA law. Verify the legal status and gazzeted boundaries of all existing focus PAs with the purpose

of populating the national PAN Register.PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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The project will support the TNC to develop a Protected Area Expansion Strategy for the FSM aimed at achieving the MC PA targets and based on a systematic conservation plan using the biodiversity data collected by the SEA process (Output 1.1.1).

Output 2.3: Management authorities (state and community) of newly established PAs are equipped and capacitated in managing PAs.

210. The management authorities of new PAs (Bottom-tier) will be been equipped to perform management functions. Equipment will include GPS’s, computers, cameras and budget to procure fuel or rent vehicles. No boats or vehicles will be procured for individual PAs. The R2R project will fund beacons/buoys to mark PA boundary vertices.

211. Training will be provided on management plan development and implementation, monitoring, biodiversity identification, enforcement and social-ecology skills (e.g. conflict resolution).

Output 2.4: Effective site and cross-site level PA management practices promoted in new and existing PAs.

212. By applying the national standards and guidelines for PA management developed by the R2R project this output will enhance site-level PA management by improving PA management planning, boundary demarcation and zoning; implement an environmental monitoring program and build capacity in relevant communities around PA management.

Output 2.4.1: Improved PA management planning and boundary demarcation have been implemented

213. The R2R project will focus on building capacity around effective management plan development rather than attempting to complete management plans for all 0 focus PA sites.

214. The conceptual foundation for developing and implementing PA management plans is “Adaptive Management”. Therefore the management plan will be explicitly and directly linked to the monitoring plan (Outcome 2.4.3). Thresholds for key management effectiveness and biodiversity conservation indicators will link the management and monitoring components of the PA plan. Depending on context and wishes of stakeholders, other social and economic indicators can also be incorporated.

215. Element that will be included in the management plans:

Develop biodiversity, environmental and context base maps PA management plans will include a complete description/inventory of the biodiversity of

each PA. Develop a PA zoning scheme using GIS and aligned with ILMP, SEA and CC adaptation

strategies, and value inputs from communities (e.g. heritage or scared sites). Alien invasive management plans or where they exist integrating existing alien invasive

species management plans Stakeholder engagement plan and communication strategy aimed to strengthen

coordination, collaboration and synergies among relevant stakeholders (e.g. with existing PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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management bodies such as MPA Executive Committee & Watershed Steering Committee). Community forums can also be used to endorse and implement plans through participatory processes.

Review existing management plans for individual PAs and include Forest Management and other community management plans that may relate to biodiversity management at or around the site.

Traditional rights and responsibilities will be entrenched in PA management plans where these support sustainable ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation values.

Promote conservation of traditional land-use practices that support sustainable ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation values. For example, in Yap traditional Yapese knowledge and technology of ‘qolung’ improves fisheries habitat though physical enhancement of the reef. The PA management plan can documentation traditional knowledge and technology; map the physical location of the area under such traditional management; set guidelines for use of traditional practices; monitor the conservation effectiveness of the traditional practices; use traditional practices as a vehicle for engaging and communicating conservation values with communities.

Output 2.4.2: Improved zoning and boundary demarcation based on and aligned to the ILMP, and SEA.

216. The spatial and land-use guidelines outputs from the SEA and ILMP and the principles underpinning systematic spatial biodiversity planning will be used to inform the conservation/activity/land-use zoning scheme included in PA management plans.

Output 2.4.3: Biological/ecological monitoring systems have been implemented

217. Underpinning the long-term sustainability of the R2R intervention will be the sustainability of the biodiversity monitoring and information management systems implemented and mainstreamed into government functioning during the project. The purpose of this monitoring is to evaluate progress towards achieving strategic objectives and to inform forward planning. Environmental monitoring and information management is a national priority and is already a priority with the MC. The R2R will support the existing monitoring strategy initiated by the Micronesian Challenge (MC) coral-reef monitoring network. The MC effort has currently established an initial database infrastructure to handle one component of benthic ecological surveys for beta-testing the process. Benthic data depict the status and trends in the reef community over time, and specifically track the abundances of corals, algae, and other invertebrate substrates. Most importantly, these data serve to evaluate change in response to both disturbances and management efforts, and provide feedback to site-based project managers. R2R will support the building of several additional components to the MC database that will capture all data being developed in association with the project, PA and SLM. For marine areas these include coral species abundances, fish size and abundance, and macro invertebrate densities. For forest surveys these include floristic and animal surveys, tree diameters and heights, canopy cover, ground cover data, etc.

218. The Output will continue to foster dialogue around developing and implementing a national environmental monitoring framework. This framework will build on existing monitoring


initiatives and information management initiatives (e.g. GeoMicronesia, FSM CHM, MC, SPREP, TNC, etc.); involve all role-players currently involved in environmental monitoring and enables the building of a collaborative partnership between all role-players; makes provision for a national or multi-national data repository; reinforce efforts of the MC to set minimum standards for data collection and management; puts mechanisms in place to build national capacity around environmental monitoring and information management; defines clear roles and responsibilities especially for National and State departments; respects legal ownership of data and drafts an MOU with key partners to protect rights and define roles and responsibilities; and, puts in place mechanisms to allow for data to inform adaptive management and strategic planning processes through use of robust and realistic set of indicators and thresholds linked to the monitoring framework

219. Given the disparate nature of the current biodiversity information and monitoring programs in FSM it was not possible for the PPG process to establish a baseline for all biodiversity indicators selected for this project. A primary activity of the R2R biological monitoring component will be to establish baselines for values for birds on Chuuk and Yap.

220. Recommendations for the national environmental monitoring framework identified by stakeholders during the PPG include:

Develop standards and indicators for monitoring measures/protocol to be align to the Micronesia Challenge monitoring protocol;

Further and strengthened implementation of the Protected Area Management Effectiveness Tool (MPAME) by including terrestrial PAs and align the tool with the GEF PA METT;

A socioeconomic monitoring program for the FSM based on that developed by the MC Measures Working Group;

Implements a biological/ecological monitoring program based the Final MC Terrestrial Monitoring Indicators and Methods;

Communicates monitoring and evaluations results by linking with the Making the Case component of the R2R project;

Training for monitoring protocols (Micronesia Challenge - Terrestrial and Marine Protocols) and training for data collection and reporting of PAs;

Support data gathering, management and analysis beyond just the R2R project by linking with the regional MC monitoring initiatives;

Hold annual meetings to review all information/data gathered; Adopt Micronesian Challenge terrestrial and marine monitoring effectiveness measures

and indicators where they exist and develop additional indicators, especially in the terrestrial environment, for where none exist;

Promote collection, sharing, management and use of relevant data and information through the clearing house mechanism (www.geomicronesia.fm);

Establish a provision of overviews of best practices, challenges, experiences and lessons learned;

Strengthening dialogue, coordination, coherence and synergies among relevant stakeholders by providing leadership and coordination;

Filling key information gaps (to be partially addressed in the SEA); and,


http://www.geomicronesia.fm/

Upgrade GIS/Survey and Mapping equipment, software, etc to enable gathering of better quality data.

Output 2.4.4: Enforcement of PAs has been strengthened

221. Poor enforcement of PA and SLM regulations is acknowledged as possibly the single biggest barrier to effective PA management. This output will improve surveillance and enforcement within PAs. This will be achieved by:

Identifying examples within FSM and regionally where PA institutional arrangements and enforcement mechanisms are effective at improving surveillance and interception of malfeasances, and up-scaling these lessons learned to the National and regional levels through the learning networks. This should also explore mechanisms for strengthen effective customary or traditional approaches to enforcement. It is important that evidence-based effective enforcement strategies are adopted.

Foster cooperation and understanding between all law enforcement (State PA and enforcement agencies, communities, police and Attorney General) as well as building capacity of all role-players to better enforce and prosecute environmental crimes relating to both PAs and SLM.

Promote ownership of the natural environment within communities responsible for co-management of PA through awareness raising (i.e. Making the Case benefits of the environment) and entrenching rights and responsibilities within PA management plans thereby increasing willingness to enforce PA regulations.

Output 2.4.5: Communities have been capacitated to better management of specific land-use pressures at the site-level.

222. This output will develop the capacities of communities to better manage PAs especially management and mitigation of land-use pressures and conflicts that impact on PA management effectiveness. This output will be achieved through two activities:

Expansion of the RARE Pride Campaign to all States to focus on building greater awareness in communities responsible for managing PAs around PAs and environmental issues generally, as well as fostering greater sense of ownership of PAs by communities; and,

Targeted training for community PA managers: (1) Organisational, administrative, project management and grant development skills training for community conservation grant management/governance bodies (boards, fiscal staff, etc.); and, (2) Training in conflict resolution and mitigation for communities and PA implementation role players to mediate/mitigate land and water resource conflicts around PAs, planning with customary tenure, and demarcation of PA boundaries.

COST-EFFECTIVENESS

223. Pressures on biodiversity in FSM continue to increase and are set to rise further. Without urgent action, globally important biodiversity is at risk and land degradation will increase. This in turn will erode the ecosystem goods and services that underpin local livelihoods. In


addition, failing to act now will result in greater difficulties and substantially higher costs in securing biodiversity and sustainable land management goals.

224. One potential option for addressing biodiversity conservation and land degradation would be for the government to continue to operate on an ad-hoc species/site/problem centric basis as opposed to a holistic ecosystem-based approach at the landscape scale.

225. In a country such as FSM, with increasing development pressure and demands on scarce resources, coupled with high alpha and beta diversity in the marine environment and high gamma diversity in the terrestrial environment, the impact of a silo approach and the ongoing costs related to their management, would not be a viable strategy on its own. A species/site/problem centric approach would not only ultimately fail to reach conservation and rehabilitation targets, the constrained amount that would be achieved would come at significantly higher costs than are necessary.

226. The R2R project approach that has been selected recognizes these challenges and builds alternatives. It recognizes that responsibility for natural resource management and biodiversity conservation will straddle private, community and government landholders, and the imperative of supporting and incentivizing the conservation and sustainable management of these resources. At the same time, it also recognizes that without effective protected area management, resource use planning, a system of co-management and incentives would not be sufficient to reduce and reverse current rates of biodiversity loss and land degradation.

227. The approach is not only considered a realistic means of achieving natural resource management and biodiversity goals in the FSM context, it is also the preferred approach from a cost-effectiveness point of view. This project will enable the willingness and energies of the majority of resource users and landholders to be harnessed and to participate in achieving conservation goals given the appropriate incentives to do so. The project seeks to achieve efficiencies through reducing conflicting land-uses and land-use practices, and improve the sustainability of terrestrial and marine management so as to maintain the flow of vital ecosystem services and sustain the livelihoods of local communities.

228. The project approach also recognizes that, with more focus on ecosystem approaches at the landscape scale and the introduction of technological innovations, government institutions involved in natural resource management can realize greater effectiveness in reaching biodiversity and natural resource management goals.

PROJECT CONSISTENCY WITH NATIONAL PRIORITIES/PLANS

229. This project is a result of extensive consultations at national and local level that have taken place over the past 18 months with all stakeholders to define the priorities for programming the GEF 5 Focal Area allocations.

230. PA area outcomes from the R2R project contribute towards achieving the MC goals for FSM of conserving 20% terrestrial and 30% marine ecosystems.


231. This project is fully aligned with FSM Strategic Development Plan, specifically to “protect, conserve, and sustainably manage a full and functional representation of marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems”. The following strategies will benefit from this project: (1) A Blueprint for Conserving the Biodiversity of the FSM, specifically the identification of areas of biological significance; (2) The NBSAP, specifically the following Strategic Themes: 1 – Ecosystem Management. Strategic Goal: a full representation of FSM’s marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems are protected, conserved, and sustainably managed, including selected areas designated for total protection; 2 – Species Management. Strategy Goal: FSM’s native, endemic, threatened, and traditionally important species are protected and used sustainably for the benefit of future generations of the people of the FSM and the global community. 4 – Agrobiodiversity. Strategic Goal: The conservation and sustainable use of Agrobiodiversity contributes to the nation’s development and the future food security of the FSM. 8 – Human Resources and Institutional Development. Strategy Goal: All citizens, residents, and institutions of the nation are aware of the importance of biodiversity and have the technical knowledge, skills, and capability to conserve all biodiversity within the nation. 9 – Resource Owners. Strategy Goal: traditional resource owners and communities are fully involved in the protection, conservation, preservation, and sustainable use of the nation’s biodiversity. 10 – Mainstreaming Biodiversity. Strategy Goal: All economic and social activities of the FSM take full account of impacts on and fully consider sustainability of biodiversity.

232. The project will directly support the FSM to achieve the following Aichi Targets: (5) By 2020, the rate of loss of all natural habitats, including forests, is at least halved and where feasible brought close to zero, and degradation and fragmentation is significantly reduced; (6) By 2020 all fish and invertebrate stocks and aquatic plants are managed and harvested sustainably, legally and applying the ecosystem based approaches, so that overfishing is avoided, recovery plans and measures are in place for all depleted species, fisheries have no significant adverse impacts on threatened species and vulnerable ecosystems and the impacts of fisheries on stocks, species and ecosystems are within safe ecological limits; (11) By 2020, at least 17 per cent of terrestrial and inland water, and 10 per cent of coastal and marine areas, especially areas of particular importance for biodiversity and ecosystem services, are conserved through effectively and equitably managed, ecologically representative and well-connected systems of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures, and integrated into the wider landscapes and seascapes; (12) By 2020 the extinction of known threatened species has been prevented and their conservation status, particularly those in decline, has been improved and sustained. The project also advances the strategic goals of the UNCCD 10-year strategic plan namely: 1) To improve the living conditions of affected populations; 2) To improve the condition of affected ecosystems; 3) To generate global benefits through effective implementation of the UNCCD. It addresses the following operational objectives of the UNCCD Strategic Plan: 1) Advocacy; 2) Science, technology and knowledge; 3) Capacity-building; and 4) Financing and technology transfer.

233. The project is well aligned with the GEF’s Programme Framework Document for the regional programme “Pacific Islands Ridge-to-Reef National Priorities – Integrated Water, Land, Forest and Coastal Management to Preserve Ecosystem Services, Store Carbon, Improve Climate Resilience and Sustain Livelihoods”. The project’s two components are


primarily aligned with the Regional PFD Component 1: National Multi-focal Area Ridge-to-Reef Demonstrations in all Pacific Island Countries, patricularly with the following three Outcomes; (1) Ridge-to-Reef approach achieved in demonstration sites through the scaling up of IWRM and introduction of ICM towards integrated management of natural resources and to reduce watershed and coastal pollution in priority catchments; (2) Improved terrestrial and marine biodiversity conservation in priority catchments and linked to coastal areas; and (3)improved resilience to climate change of island ecosystems and communities in priority catchments.

COUNTRY OWNERSHIP: COUNTRY ELIGIBILITY AND COUNTRY DRIVENNESS

234. The Federated States of Micronesia ratified the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on the 20 June 1994.

235. FSM published its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) in 2002 and submitted its 4th National Report to the CBD in 2010. The FSM’s vision for the nation, as stated in the 2002 NBSAP, is that “The FSM will have more extensive, diverse, and higher quality of marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems, which meet human needs and aspirations fairly, preserve and utilize traditional knowledge and practices, and fulfill the ecosystem functions necessary for all life on Earth.” In support of this vision, the theme for the 2004 – 2023 SDP for the nation is “Achieving Economic Growth and Self Reliance’. External economic shocks and natural disasters will always threaten our development efforts and it is the Government’s hope that the implementation of the strategies outlined in the SDP will cushion the adverse impact of these shocks against the achievement of the national vision.”

236. The Micronesia Challenge was launched in 2006 and is a commitment by Micronesian governments to strike a critical balance between the need to use their natural resources today and the need to sustain those resources for future generations. Five Micronesian governments (the Republic of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the U.S. Territory of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands) committed to “effectively conserve at least 30 percent of the near-shore marine resources and 20 percent of the terrestrial resources across Micronesia by 2020.”

237. This region-wide initiative evolved from local, on-the-ground conservation projects across Micronesia into a large-scale partnership between governments, nonprofit and community leaders, and multinational agencies and donors. Spanning 6.7 million square kilometers, the Micronesia Challenge represents more than 5 percent of the Pacific Ocean and 61 percent of the world’s coral species. It includes 66 threatened species, more than 1,300 species of reef fish, 85 species of birds and 1,400 species of plants — 364 of which are found only in Micronesia.54

238. The MC project document includes a succinct summary as to why this is important: “This strategy recognizes that in Micronesia, grassroots engagement, spearheaded through the PAN Networks, must bring institutional strengthening, help develop finance and project

54 Costion. C.M. and D.H. Lorence. 2012. The Endemic Plants of Micronesia: A Geographical Checklist and Commentary. Micronesica 43(1): 51–100PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

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management skills including granting and reporting procedures, and must encourage and coordinate conservation efforts over time.” The FSM is an important player in the Micronesia Challenge and has made significant contributions of energy and funding to environmental protection. The R2R project will support the design of a nationwide network of marine and terrestrial PAs that will serve as one of the building blocks of the Micronesia Challenge. In turn the MC will mobilize sustainable funding and providing isolated island communities with the expertise they need to preserve their resources.

239. The Global Environment Facility (GEF) presents FSM with a vehicle for advancing global environmental objectives within the context of national development policies and programs. FSM has signed and ratified key international conventions pertaining to biodiversity conservation (Table 16), including the Convention on Biological Diversity, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (1997) and the Convention to Combat Desertification (1997). FSM is a non-party to CITES, Ramsar and the Nagoya Protocol.

Table 16. Multilateral environmental agreements ratified by FSM.

Agreement Name Date Ratified

Compact of Free Association between the FSM and the United States of America 3/11/1986UN Framework Convention on Climate Change 18/11/1993Convention on Biological Diversity 20/6/1994Cartagena Protocol 1/9/2003Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer 3/8/1994Montreal Protocol 6/9/1995Basel Convention on the Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal

6/9/1995

Waigani Convention to Ban the Importation into Forum Island Countries of Hazardous and Radioactive Wastes and to Control the Transboundary Movement and Management of Hazardous Wastes

26/1/1996

UN Convention to Combat Desertification in those Countries Experiencing Drought and/or Desertification

25/3/1996

Convention for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Central And Western Pacific Ocean

20/12/2002

Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants 27/1/2005

SUSTAINABILITY AND REPLICABILITY

240. The integrated approach being implemented through the project (i.e. combining SLM, forest management, biodiversity conservation) as a coordinated partnership between government administrations and local stakeholders will provide an innovative example that is expected will (a) generate important lessons for small island developing states, and (b) build new national expertise in new fields (e.g. land use planning, spatial biodiversity planning, PA management and enforcement). Further, the project will illustrate a new approach to land use planning and the allocation of land between different land uses in the


FSM as it will bring together the various stakeholders within a landscape and develop Integrated Land Management Plans. Through the participation of the FSM in in the regional Ridge to Reef programme for the Pacific, there will be opportunities to scale up this approach to other Pacific small island countries. This project is building on a strong baseline. First, a policy and institutional framework for protected area management and integrating natural resource management into land use planning already exists. Secondly, there is a strong commitment from Government to address the forest and land degradation issues in the High Islands. Thirdly, the project has financial sustainability written into it, through the valuation of goods and services of natural systems as well as different SLM practices, which will be used as a basis for brokering new public finance for biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management.

UNDP’S COMPARATIVE ADVANTAGE

241. The Government of the Federated States of Micronesia has requested UNDP assistance in designing and implementing this project, due to UNDP’s track record in Asia and the Pacific. UNDP has an established national representation in the FSM UN Joint Presence Office, Kolonia, Pohnpei with well-developed working relationships with the key stakeholders. It counts on a country development manager exclusively dedicated to FSM’s affairs. This officer is supported by other programme, operations and Senior Management staff at UNDP Fiji Multi-country Coordinating Office’s. Moreover, the project will benefit from the presence of a UNDP/GEF Regional Technical Advisor dedicated to Biodiversity in the Regional Service Centre. UNDP also has extensive experience in integrated policy development, human resources development, institutional strengthening, and non-governmental and community participation. The United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) for the Pacific Region for the period 2013 – 2017 has identified, under Focus Area 1: “Environmental Management, Climate Change and Disaster Risk management” as a priority. Under Outcome 1.1, the Framework identifies “By 2017, the most vulnerable communities across the PICT are more resilient with particular focus on communities, through integrated implementation of sustainable environmental management, climate change adaptation/mitigation, and disaster risk management. Improved resilience of PICTs, with particular focus on communities, through integrated implementation of sustainable environmental management, climate change adaptation/mitigation, and disaster risk management”. This project is aligned with this priority of the Framework, which is also applicable to the FSM.

242. UNDP has a large and active GEF biodiversity portfolio in FSM and in the surrounding region. The project manager, the host initiations and the UNDP Multi-country Office will ensures that this proposed project and the other projects benefit from technical synergies. These synergies will be created primarily with the following projects:

a. Implementation of Global and Regional Oceanic Fisheries Conventions and Related Instruments in the Pacific Small Island Developing States (GEF #4746): The aim of this recently approved project is to support Pacific SIDS in meeting their obligations to implement and effectively enforce global, regional and sub-regional arrangements for the conservation and management of transboundary oceanic fisheries thereby increasing


sustainable benefits derived from these fisheries. This will be particularly important when addressing Aichi Targets 6 and 7.

b. Pacific Islands Oceanic Fisheries Management Project : The aim of this recently completed project was to support Pacific SIDs’ efforts to reform, realign, restructure and strengthen their national fisheries laws, policies, institutions and programmes.

c. Pacific Adaptation to Climate Change Project (GEF #3101): The aim of this project, which is under implementation, is to implement long-term adaptation measures to increase the resilience of a number of key development sectors in the Pacific islands to the impacts of climate change. This will be particularly important when addressing Target 15.

d. The Micronesia Challenge: Sustainable Finance Systems for Island Protected Area Management - under the GEF Pacific Alliance for Sustainability (GEF # 3626): The aim of this project is to develop a national incentive program for mainstreaming sustainable land management planning and practices in order to combat land degradation, conserve biodiversity of global importance and protect vital carbon assets. This will be particularly important when addressing Targets 2 and 3.

e. Implementing Sustainable Integrated Water Resource and Wastewater Management in the Pacific Island Countries - under the GEF Pacific Alliance for Sustainability: The aim of this project is to implement sustainable integrated water resource and wastewater management in the Pacific Island Countries - under the GEF Pacific Alliance for Sustainability.

f. The planned Ridge to Reef project for FSM (GEF5) will support protected areas management, expansion as well as effective biodiversity conservation outside protected areas. The NBSAP project will build strong synergies with this planned project development.


PART III: Management Arrangements

IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS

243. To ensure the achievement of project objectives and following UNDP guidelines for nationally executed projects, the management arrangements have been designed to provide for coordination and close collaboration among project partners and key stakeholders.

244. At the national level there are two key national role players, OEEM and R&D. OEEM has been assigned as executing agency for the R2R project with overall responsibility for project implementation over the five year period and will thus be accountable for both project and financial management.

245. As Executing Agency OEEM will sign the grant agreement with UNDP and will be accountable to UNDP for the disbursement of funds and the achievement of the project objectives and outcomes according to the approved work plan. In particular, the Executing Agency will be responsible for the following functions: (i) coordinating activities to ensure the delivery of agreed outcomes; (ii) certifying expenditures in line with approved budgets and work-plans; (iii) facilitating, monitoring and reporting on the procurement of inputs and delivery of outputs; (iv) coordinating interventions financed by GEF/UNDP with other parallel interventions; (v) approval of Terms of Reference for consultants and tender documents for sub-contracted inputs; and (vi) reporting to UNDP on project delivery and impact.

246. To achieve these functions the OEEM will establish a Project Implementation Unit (PIU) comprising of a project coordinator (R2R Project Manager), who will lead the PIU, two program managers (SLM National Co-ordinator, PA National Co-ordinator) and Financial Administrator (Figure 2). The PIU team will be responsible for providing technical leadership to the project, managing and coordinating project activities, contracting service providers, providing oversight on the day to day operations of the project, communications, monitoring and evaluation of project performance, reporting and serve as secretariat for the Project Steering Committee. The Financial Administrators primary functions will be to ensure that projects funds are disbursed timeously according to an agreed work plan/payment schedule, and that the project’s financial management meets UNDP management/reporting requirements.

247. In addition, OEEM will provide the necessary administrative support for the day to day running of the project and procurement services to the project.

248. The Project Manager will be based in OEEM; the two national program co-ordinators in R&D; and, the Financial Administrator in the Department of Finance. The placing of these positions is designed to promote efficient workflow and co-operation between R2R staff and existing personal in National government relevant to project implementation.


249. At the State-level the PIU will be represented by a SLM Co-ordinator and a PA Co-ordinator. These positions will be funded by the project and each component co-ordinator will be based in the relevant State agency responsible for SLM or PA activity implementation. Technical assistants will be appointed to assist each State-level co-ordinator with the implementing program activities.

250. Further to the PIU, implementation of the project will be divided into five (5) work packages to be outsourced to competent service providers (1. SEA and ILMP; 2. PA Legislation, 3. Making the Case; 4. Monitoring; 5. Information Management). Drafting the Terms of Reference, contracting and monitoring of service providers will be the responsibility of the PIU.

251. Project implementation will be managed in close collaboration with the organs of state and implementing partners at the State level. To facilitate oversight and direction regarding project implementation, the R2R Project Manager will be responsible for establishing and maintaining a National Project Steering Committee (PSC) comprising representatives of the project partners on the basis of a Terms of Reference to be negotiated at project launch. Membership of the PSC will be negotiated with stakeholders at project inception. The UNDP will also serve on the PSC. The PSC will direct and steer the project at the national and regional levels. In order to provide technical guidance to the project relevant biodiversity knowledge, information management, finance, SLM, PA management, etc. technical experts may occasionally be asked to participate in the PSC to provide technical inputs. The R2R Project Manager will Chair the PSC and convene meetings on a bi-annual basis.

252. To facilitate R2R implementation at the State-level a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) will be established in each State to provide a local communication and discussion platform comprising all implementation partners plus other stakeholders involved in the R2R project. The TAC will provide project oversight of State-level activities and will meet on a quarterly or bi-monthly basis. The State-level SLM or PA Co-ordinator or a person elected by the State stakeholders and ratified by the PSC will chair the TAC.

253. The Terms of Reference for key staff are included in Annex 2. They will be contracted to serve the project for a period of between 4 & 5 years. The Programme Manager and the Financial Administer will be employed for 66 (sixty six) months to allow for project closure. The R2R Project Manager will be responsible for the recruitment of all other staff and procurement of consulting services in close collaboration with the PSC and/or the relevant agency representatives at the time that such staff or services are to be procured. This is to ensure that recruitment and procurements dynamics that prevail at the time are taken into account and are reflected in the Terms of Reference.


Figure 2 (previous page). Proposed organisation structure of for the R2R project.

254. OEEM will delegate the responsibility for R2R project oversight to a competent official who will be responsible for providing supervision of the R2R Project Manager. OEEM and R&D will provide suitable office space for the PIU staff on full-time service contracts, as well as the necessary office furniture and support services. At the State-level the relevant State agency will provide office space and support services to the State-level Co-ordinators.

255. All PIU staff on full-time contracts at the national level and State Co-Ordinators will be answerable to the R2R Project Manager to ensure consolidated reporting back to the PSC and the UNDP. Full-time or short-term staff employed through any of the project work package contracts will be subject to the terms and conditions of employment of the contracted implementing partner and will not fall under the responsibility of the R2R Project Manager or PIU. The National program co-ordinators and Financial Administrator as well as contracted service providers will report to and be managed by the Project Manager. The State-level co-ordinators will report to and be managed by the National program co-ordinators.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Project Oversight

256. Day-to-day operational oversight of project activities, PIU and the R2R Project Manager will be the responsibility of the appointed official within in the OEEM.

257. The UNDP, through the UNDP Multi Country Office in Fiji; the UN Joint Presence Office in Pohnpei; and, the UNDP - GEF Regional Technical Advisor (RTA) will provide strategic operational and technical oversight and support for the project.

Project Management at the central level

258. The project will be coordinated and managed by the Project Implementation Unit (PIU) under the R2R Project Manager supported by the PIU staff, and be based in the OEEM and R&D.

Project Management at the State level

259. Implementation at the State level will be the responsibility of the State-level SLM and PA Co-ordinators as well as the project partners contracted by the PIU to complete relevant work packages.


Project accounting and procurement processes

260. OEEM will serve as the executing agency responsible for undertaking the Fiduciary responsibilities of the project. Some of the partners may operate different accounting systems, but they shall maintain sound financial records in accordance with applied accounting standards acceptable to OEEM. A separate project account will be opened.

261. OEEM must comply with FSM public finance legislation?


PART IV: Monitoring Framework and Evaluation

MONITORING AND REPORTING

262. The project will be monitored through the following monitoring and evaluation (M&E) activities. The M& E budget is provided in the table below.

263. As per GEF guidelines, the project will also be using the BD 1 Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT). Table 17 lists all GEF and UNDP tracking tools complete during the PPG phase of the project.

Table 17. Summary of GEF and UNDP tracking tools completed during the PPG phase of the project.

Project Component

GEF Focal Area2 OR

UNDP

File Name Tracking Tool Name/Action Quantity to be Complete

SLM Land Degradation(LD-3)

GEF LD Tracking Tool.xls

Land Degradation Focal Area - Portfolio Monitoring and Tracking Tool (PMAT)>Complete all three worksheets. Note in Worksheet 3 only complete section LD-3

Complete once for the whole of FSM(1 in total)

International Waters (IW-1)3

GEFIWTracking_Tool_aug_2012.xls

>Complete both worksheets. Complete once for the whole of FSM(1 in total)

UNDP 1 SLM Capacity Scorecard DRAFT.docx

Capacity Development Score Card>Adapt as necessary

Complete 1 for whole FSM(1in total)

PA Biodiversity(BD-1)

GEF BD Tracking Tool-revFeb2012

Section 1 PA Register>Objection 1 Section I [worksheet 1 in GEF BD Tracking Tool spreadsheet]

Complete 1 for whole FSM(1 in total)


PA METT>Objection 1 Section II [worksheet 2 in GEF BD Tracking Tool spreadsheet]

Completed for each current and new PA(currently 40 in total)


Financial Scorecard>Objection 1 Section I [worksheet 3 in GEF BD Tracking Tool spreadsheet]

Complete for whole FSM(1 in total)

UNDP 1 PA Capacity Development Scorecard FSM.xls

Capacity Development Score Card>Adapt as necessary

Complete 1 for whole FSM(1 in total)

Notes:1. The UNDP capacity development scorecard is not a generic GEF tool but a project specific UNDP tracking tool. The questions in the tool can be adapted to suit the project or country.2. Tracking Tools (BD1, LD and IW) to be found at http://www.thegef.org/gef/tracking_tools. There are guidance on each of the TTs on the GEF website3. Do not complete now. Although IW-1 is a project GEF Focal Area nothing in the project relates to international waters. I do not think this TT is required. If specifically requested by the GEF we can complete this.


http://www.thegef.org/gef/tracking_tools

Project start-up

264. A project Induction Workshop will be held within the first month of the Project Implementation Unit being established and the services of the Project Manager and Financial Administrator being engaged. It will be conducted by UNDP for the Project Implementation Unit. At the end of the induction workshop, it is expected that Project Manager and Financial Administrator will understand the GEF and UNDP reporting requirements (financial and technical) as well as the management arrangements, roles and responsibilities.

265. A Project Inception Workshop will be held within the first 2 months of project start with those with assigned roles in the project organization structure, UNDP country office and where appropriate/feasible regional technical policy and programme advisors as well as other stakeholders. The Inception Workshop is crucial to building ownership for the project results and to plan the first year annual work plan. Apart from inception workshops at the national level, there will be state-level inception discussions so that state stakeholders are aware of project, respective roles and opportunity to comment on draft work plans i.e. to ensure ownership at the state level as well as national level.

266. The Inception Workshop should address a number of key issues including:

a) Assist all partners to fully understand and take ownership of the project. Detail the roles, support services and complementary responsibilities of UNDP CO and RCU staff vis à vis the project team. Discuss the roles, functions, and responsibilities within the project's decision-making structures, including reporting and communication lines, and conflict resolution mechanisms. The Terms of Reference for project staff will be discussed again as needed.

b) Based on the project results framework and the relevant GEF Tracking Tool if appropriate, finalize the first annual work plan. Review and agree on the indicators, targets and their means of verification, and recheck assumptions and risks.

c) Provide a detailed overview of reporting, monitoring and evaluation (M&E) requirements. The Monitoring and Evaluation work plan and budget should be agreed and scheduled.

d) Discuss financial reporting procedures and obligations, and arrangements for annual audit.

e) Plan and schedule bi-annual Project Steering Committee meetings. Roles and responsibilities of all project organisation structures should be clarified and meetings planned. The first Project Steering Committee meeting should be held within the first 6 months following the inception workshop.

267. An Inception Workshop report is a key reference document and must be prepared and shared with participants to formalize various agreements and plans decided during the meeting. The draft report for comment will be circulated to stakeholders within 3 weeks of


the Inception Workshop and the final report disseminated no later than 6 weeks from the Inception Workshop.

Quarterly

268. Quarterly monitoring and reporting activities include:

Progress made shall be monitored in the UNDP Enhanced Results Based Managment Platform.

Based on the initial risk analysis submitted, the risk log shall be regularly updated in ATLAS. Risks become critical when the impact and probability are high. Note that for UNDP GEF projects, all financial risks associated with financial instruments such as revolving funds, microfinance schemes, or capitalization of ESCOs are automatically classified as critical on the basis of their innovative nature (high impact and uncertainty due to no previous experience justifies classification as critical).

Based on the information recorded in Atlas, a Project Progress Reports (PPR) can be generated in the Executive Snapshot.

Other ATLAS logs can be used to monitor issues, lessons learned etc. The use of these functions is a key indicator in the UNDP Executive Balanced Scorecard.

Annually

269. Annual Project Review/Project Implementation Reports (APR/PIR): This key report is prepared to monitor progress made since project start and in particular for the previous reporting period (30 June to 1 July). The APR/PIR combines both UNDP and GEF reporting requirements.

270. The APR/PIR includes, but is not limited to, reporting on the following:

Progress made toward project objective and project outcomes - each with indicators, baseline data and end-of-project targets (cumulative)

Project outputs delivered per project outcome (annual). Lesson learned/good practice. AWP and other expenditure reports Risk and adaptive management ATLAS QPR Portfolio level indicators (i.e. GEF focal area tracking tools) are used by most focal

areas on an annual basis as well.

Periodic Monitoring through site visits

271. UNDP CO and the UNDP RCU will conduct visits to project sites based on the agreed schedule in the project's Inception Report/Annual Work Plan to assess first hand project progress. Other members of the Project Board may also join these visits. A Field Visit Report/BTOR will be prepared by the CO and UNDP RCU and will be circulated no less than one month after the visit to the project team and Project Board members.


Mid-term of project cycle

272. The project will undergo an independent Mid-Term Evaluation at the mid-point of project implementation. The Mid-Term Evaluation will determine progress being made toward the achievement of outcomes and will identify course correction if needed. It will focus on the effectiveness, efficiency and timeliness of project implementation; will highlight issues requiring decisions and actions; and will present initial lessons learned about project design, implementation and management. Findings of this review will be incorporated as recommendations for enhanced implementation during the final half of the project’s term. The organization, terms of reference and timing of the mid-term evaluation will be decided after consultation between the parties to the project document. The Terms of Reference for this Mid-term evaluation will be prepared by the UNDP CO based on guidance from the Regional Coordinating Unit and UNDP-GEF. The management response and the evaluation will be uploaded to UNDP corporate systems, in particular the UNDP Evaluation Office Evaluation Resource Center (ERC).

273. The relevant GEF Focal Area Tracking Tools will also be completed during the mid-term evaluation cycle.

End of Project

274. An independent Final Evaluation will take place three months prior to the final Project Board meeting and will be undertaken in accordance with UNDP and GEF guidance. The final evaluation will focus on the delivery of the project’s results as initially planned (and as corrected after the mid-term evaluation, if any such correction took place). The final evaluation will look at impact and sustainability of results, including the contribution to capacity development and the achievement of global environmental benefits/goals. The Terms of Reference for this evaluation will be prepared by the UNDP CO based on guidance from the Regional Coordinating Unit and UNDP-GEF.

275. The Terminal Evaluation should also provide recommendations for follow-up activities and requires a management response, which should be uploaded to PIMS and to the UNDP Evaluation Office Evaluation Resource Center (ERC).

276. The relevant GEF Focal Area Tracking Tools will also be completed during the final evaluation.

277. During the last three months, the project team will prepare the Project Terminal Report. This comprehensive report will summarize the results achieved (objectives, outcomes, outputs), lessons learned, problems met and areas where results may not have been achieved. It will also layout recommendations for any further steps that may need to be taken to ensure sustainability and replicability of the project’s results.

Learning and knowledge sharing

278. The project will facilitate two knowledge exchange forums. It is recommended that the first exchange emphasizes enhancing learning within the project and that it is held mid-term as


http://erc.undp.org/index.aspx?module=Intra




part of an adaptive management process. The second exchange should be held at or near termination with a greater focus on sharing lessons beyond the project.

279. In addition, results from the project will be disseminated within and beyond the project intervention zone through existing information sharing networks and forums. The project will focus on facilitating horizontal learning between different districts and institutions as well as vertical learning between different spheres of government.

280. The project will identify and participate, as relevant and appropriate, in scientific, policy-based and/or any other networks, which may be of benefit to project implementation though lessons learned. The project will identify, analyze, and share lessons learned that might be beneficial in the design and implementation of similar future projects.

281. Finally, there will be a two-way flow of information between this project and other projects of a similar focus.

Communications and visibility requirements

282. Full compliance is required with UNDP’s Branding Guidelines. These can be accessed at http://intra.undp.org/coa/branding.shtml, and specific guidelines on UNDP logo use can be accessed at: http://intra.undp.org/branding/useOfLogo.html. Amongst other things, these guidelines describe when and how the UNDP logo needs to be used, as well as how the logos of donors to UNDP projects needs to be used. For the avoidance of any doubt, when logo use is required, the UNDP logo needs to be used alongside the GEF logo. The GEF logo can be accessed at: http://www.thegef.org/gef/GEF_logo. The UNDP logo can be accessed at http://intra.undp.org/coa/branding.shtml.

283. Full compliance is also required with the GEF’s Communication and Visibility Guidelines (the “GEF Guidelines”)55. Amongst other things, the GEF Guidelines describe when and how the GEF logo needs to be used in project publications, vehicles, supplies and other project equipment. The GEF Guidelines also describe other GEF promotional requirements regarding press releases, press conferences, press visits, visits by Government officials, productions and other promotional items.

284. Where other agencies and project partners have provided support through co-financing, their branding policies and requirements should be similarly applied.

Monitoring and Evaluation work plan and budget

55 http://www.thegef.org/gef/sites/thegef.org/files/ documents/C.40.08_Branding_the _GEF%20final_0.pdf. PRODOC R2R 5517 [FSM Ridge to Reef Project]

116

http://intra.undp.org/coa/branding.shtml


http://www.thegef.org/gef/GEF_logo



http://intra.undp.org/branding/useOfLogo.html


Table 18. M&E Activities, Responsibilities, Budget and Time Frame.

Type of M&E activity Responsible PartiesBudget US$

Excluding project team staff time

Time frame

Inception Workshop and Report

Project Leader UNDP CO, UNDP GEF

Indicative cost: US$20,000

Within first two months of project start up

Measurement of Means of Verification of project results.

UNDP GEF RTA/Project Leader will oversee the hiring of specific studies and institutions, and delegate responsibilities to relevant team members.

To be finalized in Inception Phase and Workshop.

Start, mid and end of project (during evaluation cycle) and annually when required.

Measurement of Means of Verification for Project Progress on output and implementation

Oversight by Project Leader

Project team

To be determined as part of the Annual Work Plan's preparation.

Annually prior to ARR/PIR and to the definition of annual work plans

ARR/PIR

Project Leader and team UNDP CO UNDP RTA UNDP EEG

None Annually

Periodic status/ progress reports Project Leader and team None Quarterly

Mid-term Evaluation

Project Leader and team UNDP CO UNDP RCU External Consultants (i.e.

evaluation team)


At the mid-point of project implementation.

Review of R2R intervention sustainability and planning of strategic interventions to improve long-term sustainability

Project Leader and team Government

representatives


At the mid-point of project implementation after Mid-term Evaluation

Final Evaluation

Project manager and team, UNDP CO UNDP RCU External Consultants (i.e.

evaluation team)


At least three months before the end of project implementation

Project Terminal Report Project manager and team UNDP CO Local consultant


At least three months before the end of the project

Audit UNDP CO Project manager and team

Indicative cost: per year: US$ 3,000 Yearly

Visits to field sites

UNDP CO UNDP RCU (as

appropriate) Government

representatives

For GEF supported projects, paid from IA fees and operational budget

Yearly


Type of M&E activity Responsible PartiesBudget US$

Excluding project team staff time

Time frame

M&E and Knowledge exchange Forums

Project manager and team. All sub project executants Government

representatives


Mid-point of implementation and at project termination

TOTAL indicative COST Excluding project team staff time and UNDP staff and travel expenses

US$ 148,000

*Note: Costs included in this table are part and parcel of the UNDP Total Budget and Workplan (TBW) in the PRODOC, and not additional to it. Costs will be shared between UNDP and GEF according to the TBW.

AUDIT CLAUSE

285. Audit will be conducted according to UNDP Financial Regulations and Rules and applicable Audit policies


PART V: Legal Context286. This document together with the CPAP signed by the Government and UNDP, which is

incorporated by reference, constitute together a Project Document as referred to in the SBAA [or other appropriate governing agreement] and all CPAP provisions apply to this document.

287. Consistent with the Article III of the Standard Basic Assistance Agreement, the responsibility for the safety and security of the implementing partner and its personnel and property, and of UNDP’s property in the implementing partner’s custody, rests with the implementing partner.

288. The implementing partner shall:

a) put in place an appropriate security plan and maintain the security plan, taking into account the security situation in the country where the project is being carried;

b) assume all risks and liabilities related to the implementing partner’s security, and the full implementation of the security plan.

289. UNDP reserves the right to verify whether such a plan is in place, and to suggest modifications to the plan when necessary. Failure to maintain and implement an appropriate security plan as required hereunder shall be deemed a breach of this agreement.

290. The implementing partner agrees to undertake all reasonable efforts to ensure that none of the UNDP funds received pursuant to the Project Document are used to provide support to individuals or entities associated with terrorism and that the recipients of any amounts provided by UNDP hereunder do not appear on the list maintained by the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1267 (1999). The list can be accessed via http://www.un.org/Docs/sc/committees/1267/1267ListEng.htm. This provision must be included in all sub-contracts or sub-agreements entered into under this Project Document.


http://www.un.org/Docs/sc/committees/1267/1267ListEng.htm

SECTION II: STRATEGIC RESULTS FRAMEWORK (SRF) AND GEF INCREMENT

PART I: Strategic Results Framework, SRF (formerly GEF Logical Framework) Analysis

This project will contribute to achieving the following Country Programme Outcome as defined in CPAP or CPD:

Country Programme Outcome Indicators: Area of terrestrial and marine ecosystems under improved management or heightened conservation status increased by 50 per cent by end of 2016Primary applicable Key Environment and Sustainable Development Key Result Area: Environment and Sustainable DevelopmentApplicable GEF Strategic Objective and Program:BD1 Improve the sustainability of Protected Area SystemsLD3 Reduce pressures on natural resources from competing land uses in the wider landscapeIW1 Catalyze multi-state cooperation to balance conflicting water users in trans-boundary surface and groundwater basins while considering climate variability and changeApplicable GEF Expected Outcomes: BD1.1 Improved management of existing and new protected areasLD3.2 Integrated landscape management practices adopted by local communitiesIW1.3 Innovative solutions implemented for reduced pollution, improved water use efficiency, sustainable fisheries with right-based management, IWRM, water supply protection in SIDS, and aquifer and catchment protectionApplicable GEF Outcome Indicators:BD1.1 Protected area management effectiveness score as recorded by Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool: Average METT score for 27 existing and 13 new PAs (40 total) increased by an average of 10%LD3.2 Application of integrated natural resource management (INRM) practices in wider landscapes: ILMPs developed and implemented for 4 pilot sites (1 in each State) in the FSM.IW1.3 Measurable water related results from local demonstrations: 5 % of piggeries in each state practicing dry litter system

INDICATOR BASELINEEND OF

PROJECT TARGETS

SOURCE OF INFORMATION

RISKS AND ASSUMPTIONS

Project ObjectiveTo strengthen local, State and

1. Land Degradation Focal Area - Portfolio Monitoring and Assessment Tool (LD-PMAT)

Baseline + 15 -20% LD-PMAT applied at Mid-Term and Final Evaluation

Assumptions:Government remains committed to investing in



Outcome 1 indicator – do not think this is objective level; and what measures in PMAT increase 15-20%; Effects of land degradation on ecosystem services? If so, provide the baseline and target score

National capacities and actions to implement integrated ecosystem based management through “ridge to reef” approach on the High Islands of the four States of the FSM

SLM & biodiversity conservation and give their full support to implementing the ILMPs and establishing the PAs

Stakeholder institutions are engaged by the project and engage constructively in project activities.

Government is committed to working with all stakeholders both nationally and in the region.

Risks:Mainstreaming SLM and biodiversity conservation into landscape-level development plans and other existing frameworks hindered by competing government/social priorities.

The effects of climate change degrade conservation value of ecosystems and PAs.

Poor resilience of ecosystems and species to the effects of invasive species and climate change.

Extreme climatic events result in catastrophic loss of ecosystems (e.g. landslides, coastal flooding/erosion)

2. Family incomes from SLM practices:

• The number of piggeries operating under a dry litter system

0 % of piggeries in each State practicing dry litter system

5 % of piggeries in each state practicing dry litter system

Project reports

3. Water deficiency reduced:

• Average annual rate of forest clearing within defined water catchments

TBD in Year 1

Baseline established during SEA process from land-cover change analysis

50% reduction of forest clearing in defined water catchments

Land-cover change analysis at mid-term and final

Project reports

4. Clean water supply for human, animal and plant consumption:

• Number of ILMPs that have been implemented.

0 ILMPs implemented

4 ILMPs implemented (1 per State)

Project reports

Municipal and State Congress documentation ratifying ILMP

5. Capacity and finance development indicator for SLM / INRM:

• UNDP-GEF SLM Capacity Development Scorecard

Baseline + 20%

Review of Capacity Development Indicator Scorecard

6. Capacity development indicator score for the protected area network:

• UNDP-GEF PA Capacity Development Scorecard

Baseline + 20%

Review of Capacity Development Indicator Scorecard

7. Government and Donor funding allocated to SLM (including PA management costs)

xxx

US$9.2 million Baseline +10% Annual National, State and NGO budget allocations

Outcome 1: Outputs:



Please include as first indicator under the objective: % of area of High Islands where ecosystem based management is fully integrated into land use and development planning through the development and implementation of ILUMPs. The baseline would be 0% and EOP target 100% - can also be hectares if you prefer – PMAT states 62,130 hectares. Also include an indicator here with some measure with IW TT


Suggest also Outcome 1 indicator but can also remain here


See below – the ILUMP need to cover the all high islands in each state; I think the piggeries water quality indicator is sufficient and would delete this indicator


Outcome 1 indicator


Outcome 1 indicator; can we please change the indicator to “% of High Islands of FSM covered with natural forests providing water provisioning services (both quality and quantity)”; then we list the High Islands and their current/existing % natural forests and as target we have % natural forest maintained or increased”


Outcome 1 indicator. Can we have a wider indicator in PMAT we have two measures we can develop further – livestock productivity (10,000 pigs) value $1.5 million and average income from crop and livestock production US$ 44.3 million - piggeries indicator fine should just read % of annual piggery industry value of US$ 1.5 million from piggeries operating under a dry litter system; but then also the percentage/value of SLM practices of the US$ 44.3 million average income from crop and livestock production should be included – what is the existing value of the grow low sakau and SALT practices and what will be target?

Integrated Ecosystems Management and Rehabilitation on the High Islands of the FSM to enhance Ridge to Reef Connectivity

o Four Integrated Landscape Management Plans (ILMPs), each covering the High Islands of FSM, are developed and implemented for the High Islands of the FSM:

o Institutions with sectoral responsibilities for the development and conservation of the High Islands, together with relevant CSOs and community partners, are capacitated for coordinated action at the wider landscapes on SLM

o Additional finances for SLM investments (including PA management costs) secured and existing contributions to the environmental sector to support SLM practices aligned.

o Management and rehabilitation of critical ecosystems implemented to enhance functional connectivity, reduce erosion, improve water quantity and quality and reduce coastal flooding.

8. Extent (ha) of ecosystems rehabilitated:

• Upland forests• Mangroves & wetlands

Areas to be identified in ILMPs

0 hectares0 hectares

350 hectares 50 hectares

Project reports Assumptions: The National and State governments allocate adequate resources (staff and budget) to fulfill their roles in PAN implementation, SLM and information management.

Identified role players and stakeholders engage constructively with respect to PAN implementation, SLM and capacity building.

Risks:ILMPs developed but not implemented by regulatory authorities.

Catastrophic climatic events reverse progress made with rehabilitation

9. Extent (ha) of ecosystem degradation avoided:

• Upland forests• Agroforestry• Mangrove

0 hectares0 hectares0 hectares

350 ha100 ha50 ha

10. Increased water quality due to the reduction of nutrient pollution through improved management of piggeries measured as water quality of rivers in ILMP sites.

Number of operational PRIVATE piggeries

Water quality in 4 catchments(See Map 7, Table 27 for description of project sites)

Pohnpei: 1Kosrae: 0Ckuuk: 0Yap: 0

Baseline TBD in Year 1

Pohnpei: 10Kosrae: 5Ckuuk: 5Yap: 5

Baseline + 20%

Project reports

Quarterly water quality testing

Outcome 2:Management Effectiveness enhanced within new and existing

Outputs:o A National and State-level Legal and Institutional Framework have been established to improve management effectiveness of

PA’s.o The PAN of the High Islands has been expanded, and existing and new PAs of the have been secured through a review and

upgrading of legal protection status (gazetting of all PAs).



Piggeries need to be identified in PPG stage


I do not see where this is addressed in the project planning


I think this indicator can be removed. There is conflict in the PIF between Expected Outcome and Expected Output. Outcomes talk about avoided degradation in 350 upland, 100 agroforest and 50 mangrove. Expected Outputs talks about rehab 350 upland and 50 mangrove but does no mention agroforest.

PAs on the High Islands of FSM as part of the R2R approach (both marine and terrestrial)

o Management authorities (state and community) of newly established PAs are equipped and capacitated in managing PAs.o Effective PA management practices have been adopted in existing and new PAs.11. METT scores • 27 Existing PA’s (7598 ha)• 13 New PA’s (17388 ha)

(See Annex 8, Table 25)

55 65% METT applied at Mid-Term and Final Evaluation

Assumptions:The National and State governments allocate adequate resources (staff and budget) to fulfill their roles in PAN implementation, SLM and information management.

Identified role players and stakeholders engage constructively with respect to PAN implementation, SLM and capacity building.

Risks:Recommendations from the SEA and ILMP not integrated into PA management plans.

Recommended State-level PA law reform not enacted by State governments.

National and State role players cannot agree on their respective roles in PAN implementation, management, monitoring and enforcement.

Poor resilience of marine and terrestrial ecosystems and species to the effects of climate change and IAS

12. Coverage (ha) of statutory PAs in the High Islands

• PAs gazette status verified

• Marine• Terrestrial• Total

Legal status of 0 (0 ha) PAs verified

3,154 ha4,444 ha7,598 ha

Legal status of 40 PAs verified - 27 existing and 13 new gazette

3,154 ha + 11,799 ha4,444 ha + 5,589 ha

7,598 ha + 17,388 ha

Project reports

National PAN register

State Congress PA proclamations

13. Stable or increased populations of critically endangered focal species:

• Marine13.1 Cheilinus undulatus(Humphead Wrasse)

13.2 Bolbometopon muricatum(Green Humphead Parrotfish)

13.3 Chlorurus microrhinos(Steephead Parrotfish)

• Terrestrial

Indicator baseline value is specific to each State.

Total Biomass

Total Biomass

Size Structure & Total Biomass

(See NOTE 1 below for baseline)

Change in baseline indicator is relative to the specific baseline value for each State.

Baseline + 5% increase for all indicators

PA monitoring results

Project reports


Zosterops cinereus(Kosrae White-eye, Kosrae)

Myiagra pluto (Pohnpei Flycatcher)

Metabolus rugensis(Truk Monarch)

Monarcha godeffroyi(Yap Monarch)

Micronesian Pigeon (ALL STATES)(Ducula oceanica)

XXXX

Mean Detection Rate: 0.7936

(See NOTE 2 for baseline)

TBD in Year 1

TBD in Year 1

Detection Rate

(See notes below)

Baseline stable or increasing for all indicators

NOTE 1

Peter Houk (Univ. Guam) unpublished data from FSM coral monitoring programs.

Baseline indicator values for marine species:

High Island Species

Total Biomass Size Structure

Number of individuals observed

Mean % biomass

accounted for by species across sites

Mean size Variance Skewness



Still awaiting data. There is a recent study that we are trying to get hold of.

Chuuk

Bolbometopon muricatum

1 0.22 39.00 NA NAKosrae 0 0.00 0.00 NA NAPohnpei 2 0.48 37.50 12.50 NAYap 8 4.70 40.63 410.27 0.36Chuuk

Cheilinus undulatus

10 1.14 27.60 336.27 1.22Kosrae 8 1.52 54.38 575.70 0.11Pohnpei 29 5.20 32.97 285.89 0.82Yap 28 2.47 20.61 203.06 0.62Chuuk

Chlorurus microrhinos

188 5.20 26.81 89.14 -0.14Kosrae 25 0.73 21.68 64.64 1.62Pohnpei 119 3.61 26.79 41.46 -1.20Yap 48 7.01 31.94 79.93 -0.85Note: As rare species cannot be adequately sampled, Size Structure is not considered to be a good indicator for these species. Instead, Total Biomass is considered a better metric for rare species and can also be applied to more abundant ones.

NOTE 2

Oleiro, P. C. (2014) Avian Population Responses to Anthropogenic Landscape Changes in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia. MSc Thesis, University of Missouri.

Species detection rates (birds detected/8 minutes) observed in 2012 on the island of Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia at six elevation zones. (*): Vulnerable, (**): Critically endangered (IUCN 2013); (1): species modelled with >29 detections in at least 2 of the 3 surveys.

Mean Detection Rate calculated EXCLUDING Mangrove habitats.

Olerio (2014) Species Name Species Name Common Name Mangr

ove0-

100m101-200m

201-400m

401-600m

601-800m

MEAN

P. lepturus (1) Phaethon lepturus white-tailed tropicbird 0.043 0.043 0.000 0.102 0.000 0.053 0.0396E. sacra Egretta sacra Pacific Reef-Heron 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0Anous spp. (1) Anous spp. noddy terns 0.426 0.213 0.375 0.327 0.238 0.053 0.2412G. alba (1) Gygis alba white tern 0.660 0.319 0.063 0.286 0.095 0.000 0.1526G. kubaryi * Alopecoenas kubaryi Caroline Ground-dove 0.000 0.000 0.047 0.020 0.000 0.053 0.024


P. porphyraceus (1)

Ptilinopus porphyraceu purple-capped fruit-dove 2.021 2.128 2.656 2.612 2.714 1.947 2.4114

D. oceanica (1) Ducula oceanica Micronesian pigeon 0.234 0.021 0.125 0.551 0.905 0.474 0.4152T. rubiginosus (1) Trichoglosuss rubiginosus Pohnpei lorikeet 3.340 2.277 1.109 0.918 0.857 0.789 1.19P. cinerea Amaurornis cinerea White-browed Crake 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0A. flammeus Asio flammeus Short-eared Owl 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0A. vanikorensis (1) Aerodramus vanikorensis island swiftlet 0.043 0.298 0.313 0.551 0.714 0.000 0.3752T. reichenbachii (1)

Toridamphus reichenbachii Micronesian kingfisher 1.681 0.553 0.766 0.531 0.619 0.105 0.5148

C. tenuirostris Coracina tenuirostris Slender-billed Cicadabird 0.043 0.000 0.031 0.020 0.000 0.158 0.0418M. pluto (1) Myigra pluto Pohnpei flycatcher 0.468 0.851 0.781 0.837 0.762 0.737 0.7936R. kubaryi (1) Rhipidura kubaryi Pohnpei fantail 0.298 1.021 0.719 0.898 0.381 0.211 0.646A. syrinx (1) Acrocephalus syrinx Caroline Islands Reed-warbler 0.000 0.000 0.016 0.061 0.048 0.000 0.025A. opaca (1) Aplonis opaca Micronesian Starling 1.191 1.468 1.594 2.224 1.905 1.579 1.754A. pelzelni ** Aplonis pelzelni Pohnpei mountain starling 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0M. rubratra (1) Myzomela rubratra Micronesian honeyeater 3.255 2.596 2.469 2.429 2.143 1.579 2.2432Z. semperi (1) Zosterops semperi Caroline Islands white-eye 0.000 0.064 0.109 0.102 0.000 0.526 0.1602Z. cinereus (1) Zosterops cinereus Grey-brown White-eye 0.766 2.000 2.172 2.286 1.762 1.421 1.9282R. longirostra (1) Rukia longirostra Long-billed white-eye 0.000 0.383 0.797 1.265 1.619 2.105 1.2338E. trichroa Erythrura trichroa Blue-faced Parrotfinch 0.000 0.021 0.047 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.0136L. hunsteini Lonchura hunsteini Mottled Munia 0.000 0.085 0.016 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.0202


PART II: Incremental Reasoning, Expected Global, National and Local Benefits291. The Government of FSM has made considerable investments in SLM and biodiversity

conservation to date, and has clearly indicated that sustainable development and biodiversity conservation are national priorities in various policy statements and programs including the Micronesia Challenge and the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan. Achieving its sustainable development and biodiversity conservation goals is limited by the lack of national frameworks for promoting coordinated SLM and a representative PAN; systemic capacities at all levels; the availability of critical information, especially biodiversity information and knowledge; and, programmatic funding.

292. Mainstreaming SLM approaches into State-level government planning and operations is hindered by complex institutional arrangements. The financial and human resources earmarked in the baseline programs for environmental improvement are deployed and managed by sectoral departments under a highly decentralized governance framework with poor interaction between sectors. There is a need to align and coordinate efforts across sectors and land and water managers and owners, and spearhead innovative ways and means of enhancing ecosystem functioning and resilience in an integrated and coordinated way that balances socio-economic and environmental objectives. In the absence of a proper assessment, monitoring and planning regime for environmental management, managers and users continue to have a difficult time effectively evaluating and integrating biodiversity conservation and land degradation risks within decision-making processes. Under resourced States lack the capacity to generate, implement and enforce integrated land and water management plans, whilst financial constraints present a further barrier to up-scaling SLM to a level required to successfully address land-use at the whole landscape or island-level. Effecting change in the status quo is compounded by a disconnect between public expenditure and environmental priorities. This is linked to limited awareness both among decision-makers but also among the public and local communities of the importance and value of goods and services provided by intact and functional ecosystems. The value proposition of biodiversity to the long-term social well-being and economic sustainability of FSM is not reflected in institutional capacity and budgets. The FSM does not have operational examples or implementation frameworks for SLM at the landscape level. Without access to know-how, proven through demonstration, and supported by scientific observation government decision-makers and resource users do not have the experience, tools or knowledge-base necessary to effectively manage land-use.

293. The FSM government has only recently started to play a more active role in PA creation and management in an effort to build a representative national PAN. The decentralized political situation in the FSM and the prevalence of private and/or traditional control of lands and waters throughout the nation necessitates broad public participation to build public understanding of the importance of conservation and the role of protected areas. Many of the nation’s areas of biodiversity significance are remote and isolated, necessitating that local communities and land/reef owners play a significant management role, irrespective of tenure. Foremost, communities are users of the natural resources found in PAs. Communities also have strong cultural and social ties to the environment but with


rapid changes in population, consumption patterns and changes in people’s lifestyles, the capacity for local communities to manage the areas of biodiversity significance is eroding. Establishing PAs requires broad-based community involvement and consultation whilst management of these areas necessitates extensive awareness raising and capacity building within involved communities. Effective enforcement in PAs remains a significant challenge especially in community managed PAs were traditional rule of law is not supported by State-law or law-enforcement officials. The current unclear roles and responsibilities among the National, State and local-level agencies (NGOs) and local communities responsible for managing PAs combined with gaps in National and State legislation, PA strategy and management guidelines mean that the legislative and regulatory framework for implementing a national PAN is a major limitation. Many States do not have sufficient biodiversity or PA legislation and there are no national standards or guidelines for the creation and management of PAs. At the national-level there is a clear imperative to build a representative PAN that effectively conserves examples of all FSMs biodiversity and maintains key ecological processes. Current PA expansion has been mostly opportunistic and not underpinned by a systematic spatial conservation plan. Meanwhile, the support from State and national government for strengthening local conservation measures has not kept pace with needs. Whilst the biodiversity of FSM is reasonably well documented this information generally resides out of state and is not readily available to or interpreted for planning purposes or state/community PA managers.

294. As a result, under the baseline scenario without GEF investment in the proposed project, intervention by different government agencies, NGOs and communities on SLM and PAs will continue to be uncoordinated and ineffective at both National and State levels due to limitations in the policy, planning and regulatory framework, and systemic weaknesses in capacity to plan, establish and manage ILMPs or PAs systematically. The unique ecosystems of FSM will continue to be under-represented in the national PAN, whilst existing PAs will not be given adequate management attention, especially enforcement-related, to achieve the PAs management objectives or international PA criteria. The specific information and capacity needed to overcome the barriers to ensuring adequate coverage of a biologically representative PAN or to effectively manage PAs will not be developed. Biodiversity criteria or the R2R EBM approach to land-use planning and development will not be mainstreamed into government planning processes. Ecosystem values will continue not to be taken into account in development planning and environmental standards and safeguards to ensure their protection and sustainable utilization will not be developed and applied in an integrated or systematic fashion. Most importantly, an integrated approach to ecosystem management will not be implemented. PAs will continue to be managed in isolation from the surrounding production landscapes. Biodiversity considerations will not be effectively considered in land-use planning processes. The goal of integrated landscape spatial planning where the same R2R EBM principles and the same environmental and biodiversity informants are used to identify PAs, and develop PA management plans and ILMPs using systematic spatial biodiversity planning principles will not be realized. Consequently, globally important biodiversity found within FSMs High Islands will become increasingly fragmented, degraded and threatened due to changes in land use, unsustainable levels of exploitation, pollution and a range of other direct and indirect threats. The economic and human well-being consequences of continued degradation and loss of FSM natural ecosystems are easy to


predict as within island nations globally there are ample examples of societies that have collapsed as a result of ecological collapse.

295. The GEF-funded alternative will revitalize the national focus and effort to integrate SLM into land-use planning and decision making, and create a representative PAN in line with the MC mandate, supported by an appropriate legal and policy enabling environment. The GEF R2R intervention will enable the R2R EBM vision of a truly integrated approach to landscape and land-use management to be realized in FSM. The project will support actions to overcome the key policy, capacity, knowledge and technical barriers that currently prevent effective SLM and PAN interventions thereby also strengthening the overall PAN and mainstreaming the R2R EBM framework into National, State and community operational processes. This will include:

Strengthen communication and learning process to foster wider cooperation around SLM and PA issues at the State, National and regional scales.

Foster relationships between all stakeholders especially State, NGO and community to build support for a common sustainable future vision and to mobilize support for implementation of SLM and PA activities aimed at achieving this vision.

Improve the biodiversity knowledge-base with which SLM and PA planning decisions are made, and linked to this build on existing initiatives to develop regional capacity and systems for information management and GIS.

Employ systematic spatial biodiversity planning (systematic conservation planning) approaches to integrate spatial data on environment, biodiversity and the social-economy within the SEA and PA design frameworks to give practical effect to R2R EBM principles within the context of practical ILMP or PA management tools.

Streamline the national SLM, PA and information management policy frameworks and strengthen the State legal frameworks to harmonize activities across States in line with common national standards based on international best practices.

Build awareness amongst all sectors of society and government around the importance of environment and biodiversity conservation underlying the economic sustainability and social well-being of FSM.

296. The GEF investment will generate the following Global Environmental Benefits: GEF funding will secure globally unique biodiversity in the Yap Tropical Dry Forest and Caroline Tropical Moist Forest Ecoregions within the Polynesia/Micronesia Hotspot. The GEF R2R intervention will result in a 90% increase in the extent of the terrestrial PAN and a 200% increase in the marine FSM High Island PAN. The total extent of PAN interventions will cover 23,644 ha. This area includes the world’s lowest elevation dwarf cloud forests; Pohnpei’s Nanmeir en Salapwuk Valley that holds what is considered to be the largest intact lowland tropical forest in the Pacific outside of Hawaii; and, the Yela valley in Kosrea that holds the largest remaining ka (Terminalia carolinensis) forest in the Pacific. The PAN is also home to nearly 200 FSM endemic plant species; four endemic reptiles and amphibians; four species of fruit bats (flying foxes); an endemic sheath-tailed bat; and, 19 endemic and 20 threatened bird species. The project also expects to generate a range of global environmental benefits through improved management of land-uses in over 55,000 ha of land across the four FSM States. This will be achieved through a range of targeted interventions aimed at improving institutional capacities, and the policy and legal


framework in which SLM and PA interventions are conducted. Through the SEA and ILMP development and implementation the project will see avoided degradation in 350 ha of forest, 100 ha of agroforestry and 50 ha of mangrove measured through implementation of ILMPs within communities and integration of ILMPs into EIA decision-making processes. Using the SEA to identify critical areas of habitat that will have ecosystem process benefits for PAs, the project will use ecological rehabilitation techniques to restore 350 ha of forest and 50 ha of mangrove and wetland habitat.


SECTION III: Total Budget and Workplan

Award ID: Business Unit: Project ID: Project Title: Award Title: Implementing Partner (Executing Agency) OEEM

5517 Project Outcome / Component

Impl. Agent

Fund ID

Donor Name

ATLAS Budget Code

Altlas Budget DescriptionAmount Year 1 (USD)

Amount Year 2 (USD)

Amount Year 3 (USD)

Amount Year 4 (USD)

Amount Year 5 (USD)

TOTAL Notes

1) Integrated Ecosystems Management and Rehabilitation on the High Islands of the FSM to enhance Ridge to Reef Connectivity

OEEM 62000 GEF 71200 International Consultants 20 000 35 000 20 000 15 000 90 000 1OEEM 62000 GEF 71300 Local Consultants 15 000 20 000 20 000 20 000 10 000 85 000 2OEEM 62000 GEF 71400 Contractual Services - Individ 80 000 140 000 140 000 140 000 140 000 640 000 3OEEM 62000 GEF 71600 Travel 15 000 20 000 25 000 20 000 25 000 105 000 4OEEM 62000 GEF 72100 Contractual Services-Companies 80 000 140 000 160 000 160 000 140 000 680 000 5OEEM 62000 GEF 72300 Materials & Goods 20 000 36 000 36 000 36 000 30 000 158 000 6OEEM 62000 GEF 74500 Miscellaneous Expenses 2 649 2 649 2 649 2 649 2 649 13 245

TOTAL COMPONENT 1 GEF 232 649 393 649 403 649 393 649 347 649 1 771 245

2) Management Effectiveness enhanced within new and existing PAs on the High Islands of FSM as part of R2R approach

OEEM 62000 GEF 71200 International Consultants 8 000 20 000 25 000 15 000 68 000 7OEEM 62000 GEF 71300 Local Consultants 0 OEEM 62000 GEF 71400 Contractual Services - Individ 200 000 270 000 300 000 300 000 300 000 1 370 000 8OEEM 62000 GEF 71600 Travel 15 000 25 000 25 000 25 000 25 000 115 000 9OEEM 62000 GEF 72100 Contractual Services-Companies 115 000 255 000 255 000 255 000 210 000 1 090 000 10OEEM 62000 GEF 72500 Supplies 1 900 1 900 450 450 4 700 11OEEM 62000 GEF 72800 Information Technology Equipmt 20 000 7 545 27 545 12OEEM 62000 GEF 74500 Miscellaneous Expenses 4 000 4 000 4 000 4 000 4 000 20 000 13

TOTAL COMPONENT 2 GEF 363 900 583 445 609 450 599 450 539 000 2 695 245

3) Project Management

OEEM 62000 GEF 71200 International Consultants 20 000 30 000 50 000 14OEEM 62000 GEF 71400 Contractual Services - Individ 25 500 30 000 33 000 30 000 30 000 151 500 15OEEM 62000 GEF 72100 Contractual Services-Companies 3 500 3 500 16OEEM 62000 GEF 72200 Equipment and Furniture 6 000 3 000 9 000 17OEEM 62000 GEF 74100 Professional Services 3000 3 000 3 000 3 000 3 000 6 000 19OEEM 62000 GEF 74500 Miscellaneous Expenses 65 65 65 65 65 325

TOTAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT GEF 35 065 33 065 56 065 33 065 66 065 223 325 TOTAL PROJECT 631 614 1 010 159 1 069 164 1 026 164 952 714 4 689 815


BUDGET NOTES

1 Integrated land use management planning and SEA specialists; Resource economist for "Making the Case"2 Extension services training; SEA specialists3 SLM Programme Manager; SLM assistant; technical oversight from PCU staff4 Mainly air travel for staff and consultants5 Contracts with local service providers - to be detailed6 Materials for demo sites; rehabilitation materials7 Specialist spatial biodiversity assessment0 No local consultants envisaged at this stage8 PA Programme Manager; PA assistant; technical oversight from PCU staff; 4 PA coordinators (one in each State); 4 technical assistants (one in each State)9 Mainly air travel for staff and consultants

10 Contracts with local service providers - to be detailed11 Ink cartridges and Paper for large format maps12 Computers, servers, and other info. tech. equipment to enable the DOE Data Management Section to manage the Decision Support System; GPS's14 International Consultants for Mid-Term ($20,000) and Final Evaluation ($30,000)

15

Project contribution for salaries of staff of the Programme Implementation Unit including: Project Coordinator (R2R Project Leader), Learning Network & Communications Manager; Information Management Technician and Learning Network & Communications Officer. Project oversight and administrative functions will be carried out by the PIU staff, and the costs for their support are shared by the various project components on a proportional basis based on each components share of GEF funding.

16 Project Inception workshop17 Laptops, external hard drives, data projector, printers, etc. for R2R Project Coordinator19 Audits (two audits at $3,000 each)


SECTION IV: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PART I: Other agreements

CO-FINANCING LETTERS

-- See separate file—

[filename]


PART II: Stakeholder Involvement Plan297. The PPG phase included consultations with the project’s key stakeholders at the National

and State levels. The PPG consultation process included: (1) One field trip to each State comprising several focus meetings; one State-level stakeholder workshop; and, some PA site visits. (2) Two National PPG Meetings – an Inception Meeting to discuss the project concept and a Ratification Meeting to ratify the Strategy with stakeholder. Attendance registers of each stakeholder meeting are available on request. The complete list of stakeholders contacted and consulted with during the PPG is presented in Table 22.

298. A full State, National and Regional-level Stakeholder Involvement Plan remains to be prepared upon project inception. This is an identified activity of the PIU. The primary vehicle for stakeholder involvement will be through the Project Steering Committee (PSC) managed by the PIU. All 18 project partners will be represented on this PSC.

299. Results and lessons learnt regarding integrated IW practices will be shared with the regional project "Testing the integration of Water, Land Forest and Coastal Management to Preserve Ecosystem Services, Store Carbon, Improve Climate Resilience and Sustain Livelihood's in Pacific Island Countries”.

300. Furthermore, it is recognized that optimal results will only be achieved if there is close collaboration and coordination with the numerous other initiatives that are active in this sphere of work.

Table 19. Coordination and collaboration between project and related initiatives

Initiatives / Interventions How Collaboration With The Project Will Be EnsuredImplementation of Global and Regional Oceanic Fisheries Conventions and Related Instruments in the Pacific Small Island Developing States (GEF #4746)

The aim of this recently approved project is to support Pacific SIDS in meeting their obligations to implement and effectively enforce global, regional and sub-regional arrangements for the conservation and management of transboundary oceanic fisheries thereby increasing sustainable benefits derived from these fisheries.

Pacific Islands Oceanic Fisheries Management Project (GEF #2131)

The aim of this recently completed project was to support Pacific SIDs’ efforts to reform, realign, restructure and strengthen their national fisheries laws, policies, institutions and programmes.

Pacific Adaptation to Climate Change Project (GEF #3101)

The aim of this project, which is under implementation, is to implement long-term adaptation measures to increase the resilience of a number of key development sectors in the Pacific islands to the impacts of climate change.

The Micronesia Challenge: Sustainable Finance Systems for Island Protected Area Management - under the GEF Pacific Alliance for Sustainability (GEF

The objective of this project is to develop and apply sustainable finance systems and policies that will provide sustainable long-term core resources for effective and adaptive conservation strategies across the three proponents of the Micronesia


Initiatives / Interventions How Collaboration With The Project Will Be Ensured# 3626) Challenge.

The R2R project is supporting this initiative through the Making the Case research and communication strategy that will be developed. Through better messaging around the value of the environment to society and economics supported by clear facts the R2R aims to effect a positive change in political opinion towards investing in the environment, which is hoped will lead to greater public investment in SLM and PAs.

Implementing Sustainable Integrated Water Resource and Wastewater Management in the Pacific Island Countries - under the GEF Pacific Alliance for Sustainability (GEF # 2586)

The aim of this project is to implement sustainable integrated water resource and wastewater management in the Pacific Island Countries - under the GEF Pacific Alliance for Sustainability.Lessons learned from applying SLM (dry-litter piggery and slope farming) and assessment of impacts on fresh water to be shared with region.

The UNDP/GEF Project “National Biodiversity Planning to Support the Implementation of the CBD 2011 – 2020 Strategic Plan in the Federated States of Micronesia” (GEF # 5426)

The overall goal of the project is to integrate FSM’s obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) into its national development and sectoral planning frameworks through a renewed and participative ‘biodiversity planning’ and strategizing process, in a manner that is in line with the global guidance contained in the CBD’s Strategic Plan for 2011 – 2020. While the project will focus on updating all aspects of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, special emphasis will be placed on (i) the valuing of ecosystem goods and services; and (ii) the incorporation of challenges and opportunities linked to ecosystem-based adaptation and resilience


Project Annexes

Annex 1: MapsMap 1: Location of the 4 high-island project sites (orange arrows) within the Federated States of Micronesia.


Map 2. Land-cover and protected areas of Yap Island (from TNC FSM Blueprint 2002).


Map 3. Land-cover and protected areas of Chuuk atoll (from TNC FSM Blueprint 2002).


Map 4. Land-cover and protected areas of Pohnpei Island (from TNC FSM Blueprint 2002).


Map 5. Land-cover and protected areas of Kosrae Island (from TNC FSM Blueprint 2002).


Map 6. The implementation spatial framework for the R2R Project.


Map 7. Location of the proposed SLM sites for implementation of dry litter piggery projects in the four States.


Annex 2: Terms of References for key project staff

PROJECT MANAGER

The Project Manager (PM) will serve as the R2R program leader. The purpose of this post will be to provide effective and efficient strategic leadership and management of the implementation of the R2R Project. This is a GEF-funded project through the UNDP and based in the OEEM of the FSM national government in Pohnpei. It is being implemented on all the High Islands of the four FSM States over a five-year period. The R2R project has a core budget of US$4.6 million.

Key qualities of the Project Manager:

1. Leadership2. Programme management3. Financial management4. Advocacy5. Experience working in the FSM or PICs

R2R Project Manager role and responsibilities:

Strategic leadership of the Project that builds collaboration between and active involvement of project partners including but not limited to OEEM and R&D;

Ensure the coordinated implementation of activities through the establishment and management of effective governance structures, specifically the Project Steering Committee (PSC);

Oversight of all programme processes, deliverables, finances, procurement and contracting of service providers that results in the achievement of the programme outcomes;

Manage donor relations including ensuring compliance to donor requirements; communicating key messages from the R2R Project to donors; host donor visits; review donor strategies

Lobbying National and State government departments to align programmatic strategies and funding with the R2R and broader MC objectives;

Is responsible for effective financial management of donor funds; Effective management and building of relationships between a diverse range of partners

and stakeholders (private sector, public sector, NGOs and academic); Ensures that project funds are made available by the Implementing Partner in sufficient

quantities and in a timely manner to support project implementation. Ensures that the results achieved and lessons learned by the project are properly

documented and disseminated to all project parties via the PSC, as well as the broader stakeholder group.

Represents the Implementing Partner at major project reviews, evaluations, audits and other important events.

Appoint and supervise local and international consultants within the Project Implementation Unit.


The Project Manager will be responsible for appointing and management of the following post within the PIU:

Two technical advisors (National SLM Co-ordinator and National PA Co-ordinator) Finance Administrator International consultants (1 x ILMP, SEA and spatial biodiversity planning specialists; 1

x Resource economist / Ecologist; 1 x PA Legislation Legal Expert; 1 x GIS and Information Management Specialist)

Responsibility towards these staff includes: development and planning of work programmes, budget allocation, decisions regarding allocation of tasks; setting performance targets; mentorship, management and experiential training; development of performance management agreements and conducting performance evaluations. The PM needs to be able to make reasoned decisions regarding management of resources, staff, and tasks; work programs; and make strategic decisions or manage politically sensitive situations independently.

The level of autonomy associated with the post is relatively high. The PM has to be able to operate with minimal supervision from the (position of person in OEED assigned to oversee R2R Project). The Program Manager will be responsible for co-ordinating and chairing the PSC. The PSC will provide the PM with strategic oversight and guidance on project implementation and operation. The PM will be responsible for providing the PSC with written reports on the project implementation and financial status.

A key aspect of the PMs responsibilities will be to build political support for the R2R project and the SLM and PA concepts within National and State Governments through regular meetings with National and State Governors and Senators, as well as directors of key government departments. The PM will be required to use the outputs from the Making the Case component of the R2R Project as a basis for engagement with government and also the broader stakeholder group.

The Project Coordinator will further be responsible for managing and coordinating project partner interaction. This will include drawing up Memoranda of Agreements, preparing regular quarterly reports against work plans and developing future quarterly plans. As the programme is a partnership programme relationship management is key. This is not simply a line accountability type of relationship and requires skilled management and diplomacy.

Qualification:

7-10 Years project management experience in the FSM or PICs Experience with managing donor-funded projects Bachelors degree not necessarily in environmental sciences Advocacy or lobbying experience working with governments to influence development

of policy and legislation

Duration: 5 Years

Location: Pohnpei, the FSM


FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATOR

This R2R Project requires detailed financial reporting and the monitoring of the programme budget; efficient procurement of services and equipment; and, timeous disbursement of project funds. In order to support the efficient financial management of the R2R Project the Financial Administrator will work with Statistics Budget and Economic Management Overseas (SBOC) to streamline disbursement of project funds to the States and implementing partners. The position will also support the Project Manager preparing the necessary financial reports to meet donor requirements, and support financial planning and reporting of the projects two thematic work streams.

Key qualities of the Financial Administrator:

Management of R2R Project financial processes and reporting requirements Support the procurement processes within OEEM for the project Project financial reporting in accordance donor requirements

The Financial Administrator will be responsible for:

Prepare quarterly advance requests to get advance funds from UNDP in the format applicable.

Assist the PM and NPD in project budget monitoring and project budget revision. Set up accounting system, including reporting forms and filling system for the project, in

accordance with the project document and the [required FSM/OEEM/UNDP] procedures; Maintain petty cash transactions. This includes writing of receipts, preparation of

payment request form, receipt and disbursement of cash and clearance of advances; Prepare cheques and withdraw money from the bank; Prepare project financial reports and submit to PM for clearance and furnish to the PSC

and UNDP as required; Establish and maintain a computerised accounting system; Reconcile all balance sheet accounts and keep a file of all completed reconciliation; Check and ensure that all expenditures of project are in accordance with [the FSM,

UNDP, GEF guidelines]; Work to continuously improve systems and procedures to enhance internal controls to

satisfy audit requirements. Prepare monthly project account reconciliation statements, including computation of

interests gained to be included into reports. Maintain an inventory file to support purchases of all equipment/assets. Assume direct responsibility for managing the physical resources (e.g. office equipment,

and furniture) provided to the project by OEEM including maintenance of assets procured by the project (e.g. vehicles).

Undertake other relevant matters assigned by the PM.


Qualifications:

Tertiary degree or diploma in accounting /financial management 3-5 Years experience in financial management, preferably experience working with the

FSM national financial systems

Duration: 5 Years

Location: Pohnpei, the FSM

OVERVIEW OF INPUTS FROM TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CONSULTANTS

Table 20. Overview of Inputs from Technical Assistance Consultants

Consultant Duration Tasks and InputsLocal / National contracting1 x National Programme Manager: SLM

1 x National Programme Manager: PAs

Full time / over 54 months

Overall, the Co-ordinator will be responsible for the day-to-day running the SLM/PA components of the project, including overall coordination with partners, planning, management, implementation, monitoring & evaluation and reporting of all project activities:

1. Prepare and update project work plans, and submits these to the Project Manager and PSC for clearance.2. Ensure that all agreements with implementing agencies are prepared, negotiated and agreed upon.3. Prepare TORs for key inputs (i.e. State Co-ordinators, work packages) and submits these to the Project Manager and PSC for clearance, and administers the mobilization of such inputs.4. With respect to external project implementing agencies/ sub-contractors:

a. Ensuring that these agencies mobilize and deliver the inputs in accordance with their letters of agreement or contracts, and

b. Providing overall supervision and/or coordination of their work to ensure the production of the expected outputs.

5. Working with the Financial Administrator, assume direct responsibility for managing the SLM/PA project budget by ensuring that:

a. Project funds are made available when needed, and are disbursed properly,

b. Expenditures are in accordance with the project document and/or existing project work plan,

c. Required financial reports are prepared,d. Financial operations are transparent and financial procedures /

regulations for projects are properly applied6. Supervise the State SLM/PA Co-ordinators.7. Prepare project progress reports of various types and the Final


Consultant Duration Tasks and InputsProject Report as scheduled, and organize review meetings and evaluation missions in coordination with UNDP.8. Report regularly to and keeps the Project Manager and PSC up-to-date on project progress and problems.

4 x State Programme Manager/Co-ordinators: SLM


State SLM Co-ordinator (SLM-CO) is responsible for implementing and co-ordinating the SLM components of the project within the State.

4 x State Program Manager/Co-ordinators: PAs


State PA Co-ordinator (PA-CO) is responsible for implementing and co-ordinating the PA components of the project within State.

International contracting through project work packages1 x ILMP, SEA and spatial biodiversity planning specialists

12 Months over 3 years

Responsible for providing technical input into the SEA and ILMP processes as well as the protected area expansion strategy systematic conservation assessment.

1 x Resource economist / Ecologist

10 months over 3 years

Responsible for developing the “Making the Case” strategy and leading the ecosystem goods and services valuation research.

1 x PA Legislation Legal Expert

12 months over 4 years

Responsible for reviewing existing PA legislation in all 4 States and drafting new/amended legislation that is in line with (1) national PAN policy; (2) MC guidelines; and, (3) international best practice.

1 x GIS and Information Management Specialist

Part Time / 12 months over 4 years

1. This person will be responsible for collating, correcting, archiving and disseminating all spatial and other information sourced (i.e. existing or historical data from, for example TNC and NRSC) and newly generated by the R2R program.2. Lead the continued development and implementation of a national information policy and framework focusing on information requirements of the project and project partners, such a metadata standards, data sharing agreements, etc.3. Spatial and biodiversity information management will be in line with and build upon existing data management initiatives (e.g. MC) and in collaboration with relevant national and regional scientific and information management partners/initiatives (e.g. COM, TNC, NRCS, MC, SPREP, SOPAC, etc.).4. (OPTIONAL) Will act as the national focal point for the RSTC of SOPAC.5. Will be responsible for managing relationships and information requirements of project partners within the States.6. Will support the existing FSM GIS learning network and monitoring initiative by providing data capture, GIS technical training and spatial analysis in for example Open Source GIS software (e.g. QGIS).7. Will work with all facets of the R2R program to provide spatial data support, analysis and map production requirements where requested.8. Will create and manage a national environmental information archive for the duration of the project.


Annex 3: Offline Risk LogProject Title: Implementing an integrated “Ridge to Reef” approach to enhance ecosystem services, to conserve globally important biodiversity and to sustain local livelihoods in the FSM

Award and Project ID:To be determined

Date:1 December 2014

# Description Date Identified Type Impact &

ProbabilityCounter-measures /

Mgt response Owner Submitted, updated by

Last Update Status

Enter a brief description of the risk

When was the risk first identified

Environmental Financial Operational Organizational Political Regulatory Strategic Other

Describe the potential effect on the project if this risk were to occur

P = I =

What actions have been taken/will be taken to counter this risk

Who has been appointed to keep an eye on this risk

Who submitted the risk

When was the status of the risk last checked

e.g. no longer applicable, reducing, increasing, no change

1 Limited capacity within project partner institutions

March 2014

FinancialOperational Organizational

This will affect partners’ ability to carry out project activities within the project timeline

P = moderately likelyI = high

Provision has been made to provide additional specialist and/or technical support to affected partner institutions and to build capacity as part of this Project.

OEEM OEEM

2 Necessary policy changes to facilitate project implementation are not approved

March 2014

PoliticalStrategicRegulatory

The risk is that policy changes in terms of updating the PA Legislation within States falls outside OEEM’s control. If the necessary legal changes are not approved the current unclear legal status (i.e. gazetting) and legal mandate to manage PAs will persist.

Not updating the PA legislation in line with a common national framework and international best practice will impact the legal status / international recognition of PAs. This will not affect other aspects of Component 2, as the formal legal status versus de-facto recognition of PAs is

OEEM OEEM





Last Update Status

P = moderately likelyI = medium

not a prerequisite for implementing on-the-ground PA management activities.

3 Individual pig owners do not want to adopt SLM practices

March 2014

Environmental This will affect project partners’ ability to implement Component 1 project activities that seek to reduce pressures on biodiversity through better land/water and natural resource management practices in water catchments.

P = Moderately likelyI = Medium

Counter measures built in the project include awareness-raising, practical training and extension services for SLM, and facilitating access to revolving finance to implement SLM practices.Also, implementation includes working with all piggeries in a water-catchment / community therefore individuals who do not participate will marginally reduce not entirely reduce overall impact of project at the whole catchment-level

OEEM OEEM

4 Effective enforcement of SLM and PA legislation

March 2014

Environmental Lack of effective enforcement within in PAs will (1) limit the ability of fish populations to recover, and (2) allow continued degradation of watershed forest through sakau cultivation. In terms of SLM lack of enforcement of existing laws will see continued

The project will have a focus on improving the complete enforcement system by: (1) involving and working with communities in local law enforcement; (2) improving co-operation between communities and multiple state enforcement agencies; and, (3) improving co-

OEEM OEEM





Last Update Status

settlement within legal streamline setbacks and reduce efficacy of dry-litter piggery interventions to improve water quality.

operation between and professional skills of state enforcement officials and prosecutors to better prosecute environmental crimes.

Table 21 Risk Assessment Guide matrix.

PROBABILITY: IMPACT:CRITICAL HIGH MEDIUM LOW NEGLIGIBLE

CERTAIN / IMMINENT CRITICAL CRITICAL HIGH MEDIUM LOWVERY LIKELY CRITICAL HIGH HIGH MEDIUM LOWLIKELY HIGH HIGH MEDIUM LOW NEGLIGIBLEMODERATELY LIKELY MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW LOW NEGLIGIBLE

UNLIKELY LOW LOW NEGLIGIBLE NEGLIGIBLECONSIDERED TO POSE

NO DETERMINABLE RISK


Annex 4: Project design stakeholder record

Table 22. The list of stakeholders consulted during the PPG.

Name Position Organization Location Stakeholder's interest in the Project Expected Project RolesFrank Haregaichig (Focal Point)

Director Resources and Development

Yap Department overseeing State Divisions responsible for managing land and marine resources

Resources and technical assistance to support development of land and marine use plan

Tamdad Sulog/ Francis Ruegorong

Chief of Agriculture/Wildlife Coordinator

Resources and Development (Division of Agriculture and Forestry)

Yap Main division that coordinates and implements measures promoting sustainable land management and agricultural practices.

Developing and provision of training in sustainable agriculture practices. Facilitate increased awareness of sustainable agriculture and land use practices.

John Waayan Chief Resources and Development (Division of Land Resources)

Yap Responsible for management of public lands, including GIS development and management.

Development and management of land use plan, guidelines, data and records. Training in land management, including surveys.

Christina Fillmed (Focal Point)

Director EPA Yap Regulatory agency responsible for protection of land, air, and ocean resources.


Constantine Yowbalaw

Chief Office of Planning and Budget

Yap The Office coordinates Yap state agencies to develop and implement state-wide plans for coastal and terrestrial management within the R2R framework e.g JNAP (Joint National Action Plan) unifies all climate change conventions for each state and for the nation.

Coordination of state agencies to prevent budget duplication and ensure that all state agencies are adhering to agreed or legislated plans, including gender-responsive budget and planning.

Steven Young-Uhk

Coordinator College of Micronesia - Cooperative and Research Extension

Yap Research and Extension training services to communities on sustainable land management practices.

Provision of training and reference information. Integrated approach to training: agriculture, gardening, crops planting, solid waste management/recycling and composting. Work closely with schools and women's groups to promote sustainable land management practices.

Francisco Y. Ken Yifith /Julian Tewasilpiy

Acting Executive Director/ Finance Officer

Yap CAP Yap Government organization that provides support communities to develop and implement Conservation Action Plans and Management Plans including protected area monitoring.

Work with relevant partners to continue provision of support to communities in protected area development and management.

Peter Garamfel Chairman Yap Farmers Organization

Yap Community organization for farmers for the state. Coordinate implementation of SLM projects amongst farmer groups in Yap. Promote sustainable land management usage, food security and marketing of fresh produce.

Julie Yoruw President Yap Women's Yap Non government organization promoting the key Promote and practice sustainable land


Name Position Organization Location Stakeholder's interest in the Project Expected Project RolesAssociation role of women in Yap society. Women are central

in promoting and maintaining sustainable land management and protected areas and other natural resource management.

management at the community level. Work with relevant partners to promote awareness raising activities.

Leona Tamag Officer Women's Interest Office, Yap Department of Youth and Community Affairs

Yap State government office promoting women's interests in Yap.

Promote key role of women in project implementation and awareness.

Margie Falanrow Director YINS (Yap Institute of Natural Science)

Yap An educational institute providing assistance to communities with documentation and research support in sustainable land management, protected areas and biodiversity. Developed the framework for sustainable development (40 years ago) with private and public partners.

Continue to provide support in agro and marine ethno-ecology through documentation and research.

Sebastian Anefal Governor Governor's Office Yap Guardian of natural resource use and protection for the state.


Joe C. Tun (Riken) and John F. Ken (Wanyan Village)

Representative of Village Riken and Wanyan

Villages of Riken and Wanyan

Yap Conservation of Riken and Wayan village protected area site.

Possible project ridge to reef pilot site.

George Pong Representative Yap Fishing Authority

Yap State authority charged to manage sustainable fish stock for the state.

In collaboration with partners, can assist in enforcement; support and implement sustainable project such as FADs to alleviate poaching.

James Yinug Chief Resources and Development (Marine Resources Management Division)

Yap Management of MPAs for the Yap State. Ensure sustainable use of marine resources

Jonathan M. Tun Attorney General Attorney General's Office

Yap Legal review and enforcement of policies and regulations on natural resource management in Pohnpei.


Ismael H. Mikel (Focal Point)

Bradford Mori (Focal Point)

Jason Poll

Dayson Marrar

Executive Director Chuuk State EPA

Technical Support Program

Deputy Director

Environmental Educator

EPA Chuuk Mandated by CSL 02-94-01 to provide for the protection of land, water and quality of air.

Provision of trainings and workshops on EIA, GIS & conservation management. Lead in facilitating and conducting community meetings and public awareness. Follow up on the implementation of management plans by the community. Oversee information management including monitoring information on Protected Area management. Support establishment of watershed management. Support and partly implement climate change and adaptation


Name Position Organization Location Stakeholder's interest in the Project Expected Project Rolesactivities/projects.

Sabino Asor Attorney General Attorney General's Office

Chuuk Legal review and enforcement of policies and regulations on natural resource management in Pohnpei.


Kantito Kanas Director Department of Agriculture and Forestry

Chuuk Department that coordinates and implements measures promoting sustainable land management and agricultural practices.

Promote and provide support in sustainable agriculture and forestry practices and training including rehabilitation, invasive species management and climate change adaptation activities.

Wisney Nakayama

Executive Officer Chuuk Conservation Society

Chuuk Leading non governmental organization working on conservation and protection of terrestrial and marine resources in Chuuk.

Provision of capacity-building through trainings and workshops with communities and other relevant partners. Focus areas include development of community action plans and management plans monitoring, protected area design, green livelihoods and income generation for communities. Leverage partner organization efforts.

Lolita Ragus/ Kalvin Assito

Researcher/Community Agent

COM- Cooperative Research and Extension

Chuuk Research and Extension training services to communities on sustainable land management practices.

Provision of training and reference information. Integrated approach to training: agriculture (gardening, crops planting, solid waste management/recycling and composting). Work closely with schools and women's groups to promote sustainable land management practices.

Christina Stinnet President Chuuk Women's Council

Chuuk Non government organization promoting the key role of women in Chuuk society. Women are central in promoting and maintaining sustainable land management and protected areas and other natural resource management.


Curtis Graham Deputy Director Department of Marine Resources

Chuuk State government department responsible for the protection, surveillance and sustainable use of marine resources.

Provide technical assistance in standard operating procedures & enforcement training, marine monitoring training, management planning, community education/awareness, marine protected area design & management. Support sustainable marine activities including climate change adaptation activities A key player in policy development for Fisheries and marine resources management.

Kind Kanto Community representative

Wichukuno Village Chuuk Community leader requesting assistance in protected area development for the reef flats of Wichukuno village.

Possible project 'ridge to reef' pilot site.

Jonas M. Paul Deputy Director Department of Administrative Services

Chuuk The Department administers Chuuk State budget. Coordination of state agencies to prevent budget duplication and ensure compliance.


Name Position Organization Location Stakeholder's interest in the Project Expected Project RolesWilfred Robert Governor's Office Governor's Office Chuuk Guardian of natural resource use and protection

for the state.Endorse and provide support to project implementers and activities.

Robert Jackson (Focal Point)

Director KIRMA Kosrae State government agency spearheading the implementation of sustainable land management and protected area work in partnership with the other stakeholders. Mandated to manage and monitor state-wide marine areas as well as to enforce protected areas.

Provision of regulatory services including prescription of buffer zones and water quality legislation, and issuance of permits. Work with relevant state and non governmental organizations and other partners on sustainable ecosystems management and conservation. Promote education and outreach on environmental issues in Kosrae.

Steven George (Focal Point)

Director Department of Resources and Economic Affairs

Kosrae Department charged with overseeing marine and land resource management.

Collaboration with partners to undertake marine protected area monitoring as well as invasive species eradication and management. Economic planning for alternative livelihoods development. GIS mapping for protected areas boundaries measurement and land registration.

Murtanel Tolenna

Chief of Agriculture DREA, Div. Agriculture

Kosrae State government division responsible for agriculture, including quarantine services.

Extension services; teach farmers erosion control methods, preparing compost instead of chemical fertilizers and other sustainable land management practices. Provide equipment support services.

Andy George (Focal Point)

Executive Director Kosrae Conservation and Safety Organization

Kosrae Leading non governmental organization working on conservation and protection of terrestrial and marine resources in Kosrae.

Provision of capacity-building through trainings and workshops with communities and other relevant partners. Focus areas include development of community action plans and management plans monitoring, protected area design, green livelihoods and income generation for communities. Leverage partner organization efforts.

Mary Livaie President Kosrae Women's Association

Kosrae Women are central in promoting and maintaining SLM and PA and other natural resource management.

Continuing work with NRM organizations; will promote SLM and PA management at the village and community level

Captain Rinson Phillip

Chairman Kosrae Conservation and Enforcement Taskforce

Kosrae Taskforce for the protection of Kosrae state's natural resources for future generations.

To enforce the laws on protected areas. Composed of representatives from KIRMA, KCSO, DREA, the Police and YELA.

Lisina George Representative Kosrae Radio Station

Kosrae Broadcast natural resource management/ environmental education daily.

Continue working with KIRMA, KCSO and other partners to disseminate environmental messages.

Jackson Albert Extension Agent COM-Cooperative Research Extension

Kosrae Farmers’ training/resource users for sustainable use of the land.

Collaborate with state and non government partners to deliver sustainable land use activities. Assist in research activities in natural resource management.

Carlos Jose Cianchini

Awareness Coordinator FSM Pacific Adaptation to Climate Change program

Kosrae PACC - Coastal Resource Management Plan for Kosrae. Climate proofing project of Okat circumferential road. Mainstreaming CCA policies.

Support in awareness and outreach; collaborate with partners.


Name Position Organization Location Stakeholder's interest in the Project Expected Project RolesWilliam K. William

Project Manager YELA (Yela Environment Landowners Authority)

Kosrae Yela Forest Management and Protection. Continue working in collaboration with partners to expand the protected area to include upland forests all the way down to the reef (R2R approach). Possible project pilot site.

Jeffrey Tilfas Assistant AG Attorney General's Office

Kosrae Legal review and enforcement of policies and regulations on natural resource management in Pohnpei.


Lyndon Jackson Governor Governor's Office Kosrae Guardian of natural resource use and protection for the state.


Judah Johnny Attorney General Attorney General's Office

Pohnpei Legal review and enforcement of policies and regulations on natural resource management in Pohnpei.


Simon Mix President Pohnpei Farmers' Association

Pohnpei Community organization for farmers for the state. Coordinate implementation of SLM projects amongst farmer groups in Pohnpei. Promote sustainable land management usage, food security and marketing of fresh produce.

Eugene Joseph (focal point)

Executive Director Conservation Society of Pohnpei

Pohnpei Leading non governmental organizations in terrestrial and marine conservation in the state.

Work with state and community-based partners to implement project activities; monitoring, development of management plans, implementation and monitoring of plans, eradication and management of invasive species, education and awareness. Identification of plant species. Provide information base for FSM Geospatial Information data.

Joseph Saimon Administrator OFA, Fisheries and Aquaculture

Pohnpei Lead state government agency in conservation and rehabilitation of marine life and ecosystem.

Work with Department of Public Safety, Division of Fish and Wildlife, on enforcement and issuance of permits for protected marine areas. Continue to undertake regulation enforcement of terrestrial conservation for the Department of Lands and Natural Resources in Pohnpei.

Pius Hadley Director Department of Lands and Natural Resources

Pohnpei Coordinate with partner agencies on important task relating the watershed land. Department of Lands/Forestry mandated agency for terrestrial management.

Take part in community meetings, field boundary survey and maintain records and information. Work with the OFA, Fisheries and Aquaculture on enforcement of regulations in terrestrial conservation in Pohnpei.

Susana Sohs President Pohnpei Women's Advisory Council

Pohnpei Non government organization promoting the key role of women in Pohnpeian society. Women are central in promoting and maintaining sustainable land management and protected areas and other natural resource management.


Tony Pernet Chief Department of Public Safety, Fish and Wildlife

Pohnpei Enforcement agency for protected areas in Pohnpei.

Ridge to reef enforcement. Work with municipalities for terrestrial/watershed protected area enforcement. Provision of training on


Name Position Organization Location Stakeholder's interest in the Project Expected Project Rolesenforcement to conservation officers in protected areas.

Emihner Johnson

Acting Director Island Food Community of Pohnpei (IFCP)

Pohnpei Active in promotional work of locally produce foods.

Participate in research, public awareness and community training.

Henry Susaia (focal point)

Environmental Specialist

EPA Pohnpei Regulatory agency responsible for protection of land, air, and ocean resources.


Isipahu Chairperson (Mwolen Wahau), Namwarki of Madolenihmw

Council of Traditional Leaders

Pohnpei Community leadership. Make declarations, endorsement of activities usually at community, island-wide level.

Petrick Ringlen Chairperson Local Chief Executive

Pohnpei Development of Environmental Ordinances. Issue Licenses to operate business licenses.

Work with OFA, Fisheries and Aquaculture to provide certification on licenses, e.g. fish sizes.

Adelino Lorens Chief, Agriculture Office of Economic Affairs, Agriculture

Pohnpei Focal state agency for sustainable land management. Current Chief is board member of the Island Food Community as well as the Soil and Water Conservation Board.

Coordinate and facilitate sustainable land management activities among relevant partners. Work with College of Micronesia in implementing extension services. Coordinate agricultural field days and training programs with partners. Develop, deliver and manage information materials and services.

Alissa Takesy (focal point)

Deputy Director Resources and Development (national government)

FSM National government agency coordinating land and marine resources management under the Convention on Biodiversity.

Work closely with the Office of Environment and Emergency Management in its coordination of the project.

Cindy Ehmes (focal point)

Deputy Director Office of Environment and Emergency Management

FSM National government agency coordinating environmental projects.

Coordinating government agency for the project. Provide oversight to project steering committees at national and states level.

Jim Currie Vice President COM-FSM, Cooperative Research Services

FSM College level environmental science, agriculture and extension, forestry and marine research and studies. Host of the U.S Land Grant program.

Provide training and qualification in sustainable land management courses. Provision of agriculture extension services and farmers' training. Conduct relevant agriculture research. Coordinate or take part in community meetings and awareness programs. Source of ethno botanical, biodiversity and other natural resource management. Can provide and house information base.

Gillian Doone Director, Overseas Development Assistance

Office of Statistics, Budget and Economic Management, Overseas

FSM National government agency with oversight and states-national coordination functions relating to strategic use of overseas development assistance funds for the FSM.

Provide coordinating, complementing support between existing and pipeline projects and the R2R project across the FSM States and national government in order to leverage development funds and technical assistance to maximize the


Name Position Organization Location Stakeholder's interest in the Project Expected Project RolesDevelopment and Compact Management (SBOC)

project’s contribution to the FSM.

Joe Vilazon Director Department of Education

FSM Provision of training on environmental studies. Support curriculum development on environmental studies and educational awareness activities.

Willy Kostka Executive Director Micronesia Conservation Trust

FSM Leading regional non governmental organization focusing on conservation projects and sustainable financing of the conservation sector in the FSM and other partner governments in the region.

Continue to support the biodiversity efforts under protected areas management under the Micronesia Challenge initiative. Provide financing or project disbursement services to NGO and state government partners if required.

Ricky Carl/ Mae Adams

Deputy Director, External Affairs/Policy and Partnership Advisor

The Nature Conservancy

FSM International non-government organization based in Pohnpei focusing on the Micronesia Challenge initiative.

Continue to provide technical support to the Micronesia Challenge initiative.

Arlene Rosenkrantz

Conservation and Resources Manager

Natural Resource Conservation (USDA)

FSM United States Department providing technical and financial assistance to the FSM on agriculture and other sustainable land management practices.

Take part in community trainings and field visits. Can take part in meetings to provide guidance on natural resource conservation.

Simon Ellis Director Marine Environment Research Institute of the Pacific (MERIP)

FSM Non governmental organization working on aquaculture development and management projects.

Research, promotion and implementation of aquaculture activities. Develop and manage sustainable aquaculture products/ alternative livelihoods. Provision of training to communities.

Pasha Cuthers/Fenno Brunken/

EU Climate Change projects Adviser/ GIZ -SPC projects Manager

Secretariat of the Pacific Community

FSM Pacific regional organization, of which the FSM is a member. SPC assists member countries with advice, technical assistance and also negotiations on various international agreements on development, natural resource and the environment.

Provision of technical assistance projects contributing to sustainable natural resources management in the FSM. Coordinate current projects with this project. Support regional learning/information exchange.

Crissy Canlas Senior Program Manager

RARE FSM International non-government organization working in protected areas across the FSM states and wider Micronesia pacific region.

Potential partners in capacity development for protected areas management at community level.

David Sheppard Director-General Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Program (SPREP)

FSM Pacific regional organization, of which the FSM is a member. SPREP assist member countries with advice, technical assistance and also negotiations on various international agreements on development and the environment.

Can provide complementing technical and other capacity-building assistance to the R2R project. Support regional learning/information exchange.

Dale Withington Program Manager Australian Volunteers International (funded by the Australian

FSM A not-for- profit Australian organization contracted by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Provides Australian technical volunteers to FSM government

Provision of technical assistance in conservation as well as in drafting national and state legislations for institutional and legal reforms.


Name Position Organization Location Stakeholder's interest in the Project Expected Project RolesDepartment of Foreign Affairs and Trade)

departments and civil society organizations. Currently has around 5 volunteers deployed that are relatable to conservation work in the Micronesian region.

Okean Ohemes Country Development Manager

UNDP Joint Presence Office

FSM UN agency overseeing the project, based in Pohnpei.

Project progress oversight.

Patterson Shed Program Manager GEF SGP FSM Environmental small grants mechanism to provide extra support to project activities.

Environmental small grants mechanism to provide extra support to project activities.

Diana Manuel Secretary Pacific Resources for Education and Learning (PREL)

FSM International independent, non-profit organization with an office in Pohnpei that works with communities to enhance their well-being through partnerships in education.

Potential natural resource educational dissemination mechanism.

Bradley Mori Representative FSM Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Group

FSM A group composed of state representatives to progress nation-wide information management systems.

Strengthened group to progress nation-wide information management systems under the project.


Annex 5: Summary of Environmental Legislation

Table 23. Summary of National and State legislation relating to environmental management and biodiversity conservation.

Title Summary Enforcement Agency/ Remarks

FSM National GovernmentFSMC, TITLE 23Resource Conservation Chapter 1: Marine-Species Preservation

§ 101. Use of explosives, poisons, chemicals.§ 102 Exceptions to prohibition — Permit.§ 103. § 103 Exceptions to prohibition — Local materials.§ §104 Use of explosives, poisons, chemicals, etc. § 1 §§105. Limitations on taking of turtles§ 106. § 106 Control of sponges.§ 107. Control of Pinctada margaritifera (black-lip mother-of-pearl oyster shell). § 108. Trochus — Definition.§ 109. § 109. Harvesting restricted.§ 110. § 110. Trochus — Designation of season.§ 111. § 111Trochus harvesting by citizens only.§ 112. § 112. Trochus harvesting — Size limits.§ 113. § 113. Trochus harvesting — Omission of season.§ 114. § 114 Removal and replanting of Trochus beds.§ 115. § 115 Limitations on taking of marine mammals.

FSM Attorney General Office, Department of Public Safety, Office of fisheries and aquaculture.

FSMC, TITLE 25.Environmental Protection, Chapter 2: Environmental Protection Board

§ 201. Creation. (1) There is hereby established in the Office of the High Commissioner a Board to be known as the Trust Territory Environmental Protection Board to be composed of nine members as follows: the director of Health Services, director of Public Works, director of Resources and Development, and six citizens of the Trust Territory, to be appointed by the High Commissioner with the advice and consent of the Congress of Micronesia; provided that such appointments shall include one representative from each of the six administrative districts

FSM Attorney General Office, Environmental Protection Agency. (need for the establishment of a citation system with schedule of fines. Initial complaint is taken before the Board, then appealed to the trial division of the state court.)

FSMC, TITLE 22. AGRICULTURE & LIVESTOCKChapter 4: Quarantines

§ 401. Purpose. In order to protect the agricultural and general well-being of the people of the Federated States of Micronesia, quarantines are promulgated as a means of preventing the introduction and further dissemination of injurious insects, pests, and diseases into and within the Federated States of Micronesia

FSM Attorney General OfficeA Biosecurity Bill is in draft

FSMC, TITLE 22 Agriculture & LivestockChapter 1: General ProvisionsChapter 2: Coconut Development

§ 201. Federated States of Micronesia Coconut Development Authority - Creation. There is hereby created in the Federated States of Micronesia a Government authority to be known as the Federated States of Micronesia Coconut Development Authority, hereinafter called the "Authority."

FSM Attorney General Office

FSMC, TITLE 25. Environmental Protection Subtitle I: Trust Territory Environmental Quality

§ 102. Public policy. The people, plants, and animals of the Trust Territory are dependent upon the air, land, and water resources of the islands for public and private drinking water systems, for

FSM Attorney General Office. This is a trust territory law to which enforcement responsibility



Protection Act

Chapter 1: General Provisions

agricultural, industrial, and recreational uses, and as a basis for tourism. Therefore, it is declared to be the public policy of the Trust Territory, and the purpose of this title, to achieve, maintain, and restore such levels of air, land, and water quality as will protect human health, welfare, and safety and to the greatest degree practicable prevent injury to plant and animal life and property, and as will foster the comfort and convenience of its people and their enjoyment of the environment, health, life, and property, and as will promote the economic and social development of the Trust Territory and facilitate enjoyment of its attractions.

was delegated to the states in 1986 , when it became a nation. States now have their own EPA laws/agencies/Boards.

Pohnpei StateMarine and Fresh Water Quality Standard, Regulations 1992

Pursuant to the authority contained in the SL No. 3L-26-92 which authorized the issuance of regulations to protect the environment, human health, welfare, and safety, to prohibit pollution of water, and to adopt water quality standards, the Pohnpei State Environmental Protection Agency adopts the following regulations, see.

EPALack of enforcement

Title 26 Conservation and Resources Enforcement Chapter 2 Endangered Species

§2-103. Policy. The indigenous plants and animals of Pohnpei are of esthetic, ecological, historical, recreational, scientific, and economic value and it is the policy of the state of Pohnpei to foster the well-being of these plants and animals by whatever means necessary to prevent the extinction of any species or subspecies from our islands or the water surrounding them. Source: P.L. No. 6-55 §3; 45 TTC §103 (1980)

Department of Land and Natural Resources and Department of Public Safety, Division of Fish and Wildlife.

Title 26 Conservation and Resources Enforcement CHAPTER 3 Soil and Water Conservation

§3-102. Legislative findings and intent. (3) It is the intent of the Legislature that the Soil and Water Conservation Board created by this chapter shall serve as an advisory body to Pohnpei in the formulation of such plans and policies and will provide support in these matters to the Department of Land and Natural Resources, which shall maintain its role as the primary soil and water conservation agency of Pohnpei. Source: S.L. No. 3L-27-92 §2, 11/19/92; S.L. No. 5L-14-00 §3-11, 10/1/00

Department of Land and Natural Resources

Title 26 Conservation and Resources Enforcement, Chapter 4 Forest Conservation

SUB-CHAPTER I Pohnpei Watershed Forest Reserve and Mangrove Protection act of 1987

Section 5. Establishment of a Watershed Forest Reserve. The Pohnpei Public Lands Authority is hereby empowered, authorized and instructed to dedicate and vest the control and use rights in the following delineated public trust lands to the State Government, Department of Conservation and Resource Surveillance, to be managed as a watershed forest reserve. The Director of the Department of Conservation and Resource Surveillance has the power to issue permits for growing of certain crops, Research on plants and animals, and natural processes and Recreation such as hiking camping in designating areas and sightseeing;

Department of Land and Natural Resources

Title 26 Conservation and Resources Enforcement, Chapter 4

Purpose. To create and maintain an effective and comprehensive system of regulation of and assistance to the development of forest land.

Responsibility for enforcement is shared between the Department of Public Safety, Division of Fish and Wildlife the



Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Forest Conservation

SUBCHAPTER II FOREST MANAGEMENT Act of 1979

§4-111. Purpose. To create and maintain an effective and comprehensive system of regulation of and assistance to the development of forestland. Source: D.L. No. 4L-203-79 §2, 8/28/79

Safety, Division of Fish and Wildlife.

Forest conservation Act of 1987 Purpose. The purpose of this subchapter is to create and provide for the protection and maintenance of an effective watershed forest reserve, to protect important watershed areas, and to provide for the conservation and management of mangrove forests.

Reporting of violations, will be the responsibility of the Department of Public Safety, Division of Fish and Wildlife/ Department of Land and natural Resources, Division of Forestry.

Subchapter III Control and Use of Mangrove and Upland Forests, this is under the Forest Management Act of 1979

Delegation of authority. All rights, title, and interest in the mangrove and upland forests in Pohnpei now in the public domain are and shall remain in the government of the state of Pohnpei. Subject to the guidance of the Governor, the immediate supervision and control of the forests within each local jurisdiction is delegated to the chief executive of the local government wherein the forests lie.

Local Governments are authorized to enact.

Marine Sanctuary and Wildlife Refuge System Act of 1999

The Legislature finds that certain areas of the terrestrial and marine environment possess conservation, cultural, recreational, ecological, historical, research, educational, or aesthetic qualities which give them special national and international significance, and that protection of these special areas is necessary for the social, cultural, and economic well-being of future generations.§5-118. Establishment of Oroluk Marine Sanctuary.§5-119 Establishment of Minto Reef Marine Sanctuary.§5-120. Establishment of Kehpera Marine Sanctuary.§5-121. Establishment of Enipein Marine Park. §5-122. Establishment of Pwudoi Marine Sanctuary.§5-123. Establishment of Nahmwen Na Stingray Sanctuary.§5-124. Establishment of Kisin nahmw en Nangih Stingray Sanctuary. §5-125. Establishment of Nahtik Marine Sanctuary. §5-126. Establishment of Dekehos Marine Sanctuary. Prohibit all forms of fishing within the boundary.§5-127. Establishment of Palipohn Depehk Marine Sanctuary. Prohibit all forms of fishing within the boundary§5-128. Establishment of Sapwitik Marine Sanctuary. Prohibit all forms of fishing within the boundary§5-129. Establishment of Kehrot, Sapangin, Painpwil, Mwahnid, and Wahulap Marine Sanctuary. Prohibit all forms of fishing within the boundary§5-130. Establishment of Senpehn/Lehdau Mangrove Forest Reserve.(a) Restrict commercial fishing and subsistence fishing;(b) Ensure the protection of mangrove, marine and watershed habitats and nesting and feeding areas;

The Director of Land and Natural Resources is authorized to enforce this Act. With the creation of the Division of Fish and Wildlife under the Department of Public Safety, and the creation of the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture there is shared enforcement responsibility but needs to establish clear delineation of roles/responsibility.



(c) Ensure the protection of the trees and plants of the Mangrove Forest Reserve§5-131. Establishment of Nanwap Marine Protection Area.

Chapter 6 Marine and Aquatic Resources Act of 1981

?The Director of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, in consultation with the Pohnpei Fisheries Officer, is empowered to issue and promulgate rules and regulations for the implementation and enforcement of this subchapter, inclusive of forms and procedures for the issuance of permits and licenses required by this subchapter, which upon approval of the Governor and compliance with the Administrative Procedures Act, Title 8 Chapter 1, or its successor, shall carry the force and effect of law.

The Director of Land and Natural Resources is authorized to enforce this Act

Subchapter I Marine Resources ConservationPart A General Provisions

PART B Black Coral harvesting without a permit is prohibited§6-132. Taking bumphead parrotfish for sale, prohibited.§6-142. Taking mangrove crab with eggs, prohibited.§6-152. Prohibitions on taking or sale of grouper.(1) The taking, by any means, of grouper for sale during the months of March and April shall be prohibited.§6-162. Trochus exemption. This part shall not apply to trochus harvested without the state and brought into this state for use, sale or other disposition; PROVIDED that there shall be a presumption that all trochus found within the state shall have been harvested from within the state. Source: S.L. No. 2L-106-81 §2-2, 12/17/81

Permitting process includes Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture and Office of Economic Affairs. Need to define clear role/responsibility. Permit is strictly limited to research.

Subchapter Ii Marine And Aquatic Resources MiscellaneousPart G

§6-171. Control of Pinctada margaritifera (black-lip mother-of-pearl oyster shell). No Pinctada margaritifera, commonly known as black-lip mother-of-pearl oyster shell, shall be taken from the first day of August to the thirty-first day of December inclusive; PROVIDED,§6-181. Harvesting freshwater shrimp with explosives, poisons, chemicals, and other substances prohibited.§6-191. Control of sponges. No sponges artificially planted or cultivated shall be taken or molested, except by permission of the Governor.§6-201. Limitations on taking of turtles. (1) No hawksbill turtles or sea turtles shall be taken or intentionally killed while on shore, nor shall their eggs be taken.(2) No hawksbill turtle shall be taken or killed except whose shell is at least twenty-seven inches when measured over the top of the carapace shell lengthwise; no green turtle shall be taken or killed except whose shell is at least thirty-four inches when measured over the top of the carapace shell lengthwise.(3) No sea turtle of any size shall be taken or killed from the first day of June to the thirty-first day of August inclusive, nor from the first day of December to the thirty-first day of January inclusive.(4) Notwithstanding any provisions of this section to the contrary, taking of sea turtles and their eggs shall be allowed for scientific purposes when specifically



authorized by the Governor.Source: TTC §781 (1966); 45 TTC §3 (1970); P.L. No. 4C-57 §§1 – 3; 45 TTC §2 (1980)§6-211. Export of mangrove crabs, coconut crabs, and lobsters, prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person, whether acting individually or as agent for any corporation, association, partnership or other organization to willfully export for sale or exchange for value, or participate in the exportation for sale or exchange for value, of any mangrove crab, coconut crab or lobster from Pohnpei; Provided, however, that duly licensed and permitted cultured mangrove crab producers may export for sale cultured mangrove crab harvested by such producer from their approved aquaculture facilities.§6-221. Prohibition on fishing with explosives, poisons, chemicals, etc.§6-224. Catch statistics regarding live bait and skipjack tuna.

Chapter 8Land Resources

Chapter 8 Land Resources

PART A BIRDS§8-101. Unlawful to hunt or kill Pohnpei lorikeet; It shall be unlawful for any person to hunt or kill Pohnpei lorikeet within the state of Pohnpei.(2) Every person who violates Subsection (1) of this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than $500, or imprisoned for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment.

EPAThe Director of Land and Natural Resources is authorized to enforce this Act

Conservation and Resources Finance

Agriculture and marine resources development matching funds: authorization forAppropriation; administration.

The Director of Land and Natural Resources is authorized to enforce this Act

Title 27 Chapter 1Environmental Protection Act 1992

§1-102. Public policy. (2) In order to carry out this guiding policy, it is the continuing responsibility of the state of Pohnpei, using all practical means available and taking into account considerations of economic development, budgetary limitations, and traditional cultural relations, to do the following:(a) Act as trustees of the environment for the current and future generations of Pohnpei;(b) Assure for all Pohnpeians safe, healthful, productive, and aesthetically and culturally pleasing surroundings;(c) Attain the widest range of beneficial uses of the environment by maintaining a level of air, land, and water quality as will protect human health, welfare, and safety from undesirable or unintended consequences; and(d) Prevent injury to plant and animal life.(3) The effort to protect and preserve the environment will be carried forward in close cooperation with the national government, each local government of Pohnpei, and all elements of the public and private sector.

EPA

Title 27 Chapter 2 Letter Abatement

§2-101. Statement of policy and intent. The proliferation of personal litter from such sources as beer

EPA



and soft drink cans, plastic and foam take-out containers, candy and snack wrappers, and discarded sakau bottles is a major source of pollution in the state of Pohnpei. These types of litter are the most rapidly growing segment of state-wide waste, imposing a heavy burden on the government and citizens of Pohnpei for their collection and disposal.

CHAPTER 3RECYCLING OF BEVERAGE CONTAINERS

5) The planning, development and operation of a statewide recycling program based upon a deposit fee for beverage containers is a self-funding means of addressing these concerns without cost to the citizens of Pohnpei.Source: S.L. No. 7L-96-11 §1, 8/1/11

EPA

CHAPTER 4CONTROL OF PLASTIC WASTES

It is therefore declared to be the public policy of the state of Pohnpei that this state shall rid itself of the unsightly nuisance and environmental hazards of plastic bag debris.Source: S.L. No. 7L-103-11 §1, 10/12/11

EPA

Title 28 Agriculture and LivestockChapter 1 Plant and Animal Quarantine

§1-101. Purpose. In order to protect the agricultural and general well-being of the people of the state, quarantine regulations are promulgated as a means of preventing the introduction and further dissemination of injurious insects, pests, and diseases into and within the state of Pohnpei.Source: TTC §730 (1966); 25 TTC §1 (1970); 25 TTC §1 (1980)

Pohnpei AG Office/EPA/Economic Affairs

Kosrae StateTitle 19 Environmental Protection and Management

Endangered Species Regulation 1988Regulations Code 13.524 7/20/1988

Endangered Species Giant Clams of the Species :Tridacha gigas, Tridacha derass, Hippopus hippopus and Hippopus porcellanus

Kosrae Conservation and Enforcement Taskforce

Komokut (Humphead Parrot Fish) Protection Regulations 2008 Title 9 Chapter 22 Section 9.2203

Prohibition of fishing, taking possession, harvesting of killing of Humpbead Parrot Fish


Kosrae State Sea Cucumber Regulations 2013

These Regulations, which may be cited as the "Kosrae State Sea Cucumber Regulations of 2013", are issued by the Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority and shall apply to all persons involved in the harvesting, selling, buying, stockpiling, or processing of sea cucumbers. The Kosrae State Sea Cucumber Regulations 2011 are hereby revoked and replaced with these Regulations.


Kosrae State Trochus (Tukasungai) Regulations 2013

These Regulations, which may be cited as the "Kosrae State Trochus Regulations of 2013", are issued by the Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority and shall apply to all persons involved in the harvesting, selling, buying, stockpiling, or processing of trochus. Provide for the protection and sustainable commercial harvesting, commercial processing, and commercial exportation of Trochus (Tukasungai) in the State of Kosrae, in accordance with the Trochus Fishery Management Plan for Kosrae.




Persistent Organic Pollutant Regulations 2013

The purpose of these regulations is to establish the effective date of ban for substances on the priority list, and to define unlawful activities pertaining to substances on the priority list after the effective date of the ban.

KIRMA

Regulations Declaring Zone Boundaries of UBR 2013 Regulation Establishing Zone Boundaries Of Utwe Biosphere Reserve

The purpose of this Regulation is to establish the boundary coordinates for the Zones of the Utwe Biosphere Reserve. The Reserve, which is recognized as a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve, was established in 2006 and provides a representation of unique marine environment within Kosrae. The Reserve is divided into three zones that provide a balance of permitted activities, and enable the existing population to continue their subsistent lifestyles while also protecting the unique environmental values of the Reserve area. The Core Zone of the Reserve, comprising 130.88 hectares, is designated as a no-take zone, with all extractive activities prohibited. The Buffer Zone, comprising 428.53 hectares, insulates the Core Zone from human activities and development pressures. The Transition Zone, comprising 680.61 hectares, provides a mixed-use zone of sparse human settlement and agricultural activities. The Utwe Biosphere Management Plan was endorsed by the Legislature on April 19, 2012; the Reserve was added to the Kosrae State Protected Areas System on October 16, 2012 by State Law 10-48. This Law required KIRMA to establish the boundary coordinates for the Core Zone of the Reserve by Regulation.


SCUBA Fishing Regulation 2010

The purpose of these regulations are to preserve, protect and, manage our marine resources. The regulation of the use of Self Contain Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA) for fishing is a necessary complement of this management.


Climate Change Act 2011 This act amends the powers of departments – Department of Transportation and Infrastructure and KIRMA to "mainstream" climate change. - requires KIRMA to adopt climate risk reduction and climate change adaptation measures etc- requires people to include climate change in their EIAThe Code has been reshuffled, so Section 7.402 now sits at 19.102 and Section 7.405 is 19.202 (above).

KIRMA

To amend Title 10 “Finance” Chapter 2

“Fiscal Management” of the Kosrae State Code by creating two new revolving funds under the Revenue Fund, firstly for permits fees collected by Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority (“KIRMA”) and civil and criminal penalties imposed by or awarded to KIRMA for offences against Title 19 or other grants, so that the monies can be used for the administration and enforcement of the environmental laws and regulations, and secondly for the conservation and management of protected areas.

KIRMA

Pesticides Regulations 2013 The purpose of this Regulation is:(a) To regulate the importation, sale, distribution, use and application of pesticides in the interest of public safety,

KIRMA



and to protect people and the environment from adverse effects of pesticides;(b) To protect the public by requiring that pesticides sold in Kosrae be correctly labeled with appropriate warnings and adequate directions for use;(c) To control, restrict, suspend or ban the importation, receipt, sale and use of any pesticide or pesticide devices;(d) To ensure that people using pesticides have appropriate knowledge about the application, storage and disposal of pesticides, and potential hazards to the environment and human health.

Pollution Regulations 2013 The purposes of these Regulations is to prohibit the discharge and release of pollutants into air, land and water, to require the reporting of such discharges, and to require the person responsible for the discharge to abate and remove the pollutants, and to restore and rehabilitate the affected land and water. These Regulations also provide for enforcement and penalties.

KIRMA

Recycling Regulations 2007 The purpose of these Regulations is to implement the Kosrae Recycling Program setting forth guidelines, procedures, requirements and standards for the operation of the Program and to enable fiscal control and accountability over all monies collected as Recycling Deposit Fees and all monies paid out in the course of collection of designated waste materials for recycling.

KIRMA

Regulations on Development Projects (as amended 2014)

The Purpose of these regulations is to implement Title 19 Chapter 2 of the Kosrae State Code by establishing standard procedures for the formal review of development projects. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process is intended to help the general public and government officials make decisions with the understanding of the environment consequences of their decisions, and take actions consistent with the goal of protecting, restoring and enhancing the environment. In addition, these regulations are intended to:Integrate the EIA process into the early planning of projects to insure timely consideration of environmental factors in order to avoid delays; Identify at an early stage the significant environmental issues requiring further study and de-emphasize insignificant issues, thereby defining the scope of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).


Pig Pen Regulations 1997 Department of HealthRegulations on Fill and Construction Projects below the High Water Mark

Administered by DREA

Kosrae Draft Bills and RegulationsConservation Easement Bill (with Legislature)Section 1. Amendment. Title 19, Section 19.102 of the Kosrae State Code

The Legislature finds that it is in the interest of Kosrae State to promote and hold conservation easements, which are durable restrictions and affirmative obligations attached to real property to protect natural and historic resources consistent with the land registration system utilized in the State. It is the purpose of this Act to authorize Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority




to serve as the holder of conservation easements on behalf of Kosrae State, and to maximize the freedom of the parties to the transaction to impose restrictions on the use of land and improvements in order to protect them, and to impose affirmative duties for the same purposes. These restrictions or affirmative duties are binding upon the successors and assigns of the original parties

Environment Fund (with Legislature)

A BILL FOR AN ACTAuthority (“KIRMA”) and civil and criminal penalties imposed by or awarded to KIRMA for offences against Title 19 or other grants, so that the monies can be used for the administration and enforcement of the environmental laws and regulations, and secondly for the conservation and management of protected areas


Safe Drinking Water (vetoed by Governor 2010; requiring review)

A BILL FOR AN ACTTo insert a new Chapter 9 in Title 19 of the Kosrae State Code entitled the Safe Drinking Water Act of 2014; and for other purposes.


Protected Area (Forest Management) Regulations (open for public consultation until May 2)In draft form – not released – KIRMA internal drafts ONLY

Kosrae’s environment is dominated by forest ecosystems, including two unique forest types. The upland mountain cloud forest is a unique dwarf moss cloud forest rich in endemic species, while the lowland Ka swamp forest is dominated by endemic Ka trees (Terminalia carolinensis). This forest is found predominantly in the Yela Forest Watershed, where the largest remaining stand of Ka trees in the world survives. Local, national and international agencies and government entities are cooperating to ensure the protection of this forested area in perpetuity

Alien Invasive Species Regulations

Alien plant species have been identified in Kosrae State that are invasive and threaten indigenous and endemic plant species of Kosrae, negatively impact biodiversity protection and the State’s native forests, uplands, mangroves, food crops and other natural resources. These species present a substantial threat to plants that are relied upon by Kosraen residents for their subsistence, medicines, building materials, and other uses vital to the health and welfare of the State. Other animals and marine species, such as the Crown-of-thorns starfish and Giant African snail, also pose a significant threat to Kosrae’s biodiversity.

KIRMA

Water Quality Regulations The purpose of these regulations is to adopt and enforce primary drinking water standards, require KIRMA approval for any underground injection well, and to establish and administer a program for the abatement and prevention of the contamination of drinking water systems

KIRMA

Gillnet Regulations The purpose of these Regulations, consistent with KIRMA’s duty to manage, conserve and develop the fishery waters, is to regulate the use of gill nets in Kosraen waters, and to ensure that fish resources are protected for current and future generations.

KIRMA

Yap State Environmental LawsFisheries Zone Title 18 §212 It is an offense to: use any fishing vessel to engage in

fishing after revocation, or during the period of Police, YFA. EPA is also authorized to



suspension, of an applicable permit issued pursuant the fisheries chapter; violate any provision of a foreign fishing agreement refuse entry of an officer authorized to enforce the fisheries chapter; knowingly ship, transport, offer for sale, sell, purchase, import, to have custody, control or possession of any fish taken or retained in violation of the fisheries chapter. for any foreign fishing vessel to engage in fishing in the State Fishery Zone or internal waters unless such fishing is authorized by a permit. for any vessel with living quarters which are also used while the vessel is in port to enter the State Fishery Zone or internal waters with-out a waste holding tank of at least two weeks capacity.

enforce §212(c) (regarding holding tanks).

Petroleum disposal; acts unlawful18 §401

This offense prohibits the release of petroleum into the ocean or lagoon.

Public Safety

Damage to reefs; acts unlawful18 §402

This offense makes it illegal for a person to cause damage to a reef. The fine in this offense does not limit the owners of a damaged reef from seeking compensation in a civil action.

Public Safety

Hunting season: wild pigeon.Title 18 §1001

It is illegal for a person to hunt wild pigeon, unless it is during the wild pigeon season from October 1 to December 31 each year

Public Safety

Sale of wild pigeon.Title 18 §1002

The sale of wild pigeon is prohibited at all times. Public Safety

Protection of coconut crab.Title 18 §1004

No coconut crabs whose shell is less than three inches in diameter measured at the base, can be taken or killed within the State. No coconut crabs, regardless of their size, can be taken or killed during their breeding season each year and from June 1st to September 30th. No person may sell any coconut crab commercially in a store.

Public Safety

Protection of turtles.Title 18 § 1005

It is an offense to sell turtle meat and turtle eggs commercially in a store.

Public Safety

Protection of clamsTitle 18 §1006

The Governor is authorized to declare a harvesting season and to set a size limit for the taking or harvesting of clams. Clam meat cannot be sold commercially in any store.

Public Safety

Prohibited fishing methods.Title 18 § 1008.

It is an offense for a person to knowingly catch any fish or other marine life by means of explosives, poisons, chemicals or other substances which kill fish or marine life. It is also an offense for any person to knowingly possess or sell any fish or other marine life caught by these prohibited means. This restriction does not apply if the Governor has given advance written permission to use the means prohibited, when determined to be in the public interest.

Public Safety

Protection of trochus Title 108 § 1009.

No person may harvest of interfere with the growth of trochus unless: It is done during an open season as declared by the Governor;It is done in strict accordance with all limits and conditions imposed by the Governor.

Public Safety



Protection of seeded or planted speciesTitle 108 1010.

No person can take any plant species which has been seeded or planted by or for the Government, unless the Governor has given express written permission authorizing the taking.

Public Safety

Temporary moratorium for protection of species.Title 18 1011

The Governor may declare a moratorium prohibiting the taking or harvesting of a marine species. No person can violate the terms of the moratorium.

Public Safety

Protection of fruitbateTitle 18 1101

No person may take, hunt, export, purchase, sell, or intentionally interfere with the population growth of, fruitbats, unless a person takes or hunts fruit bats during, and in strict accordance with the conditions of, an open season.No person may export, purchase or sell fruitbats at any time.

Public Safety

Environmental impact studiesTitle 18 1509.

Persons must provide an EIS in their development proposals in accordance with this section, and with the EPA’s EIA Regulations.

Public Safety

Violations and enforcementTitle 18 § 1512

A breach of any Title 18, Chapter 15 requirements, or of any EPA Regulations, is an offense.Specific offenses listed in this section include:Any discharge of waste into the environmentAny discharge of pollutants into the environment.

Public Safety and EPA

Failing to pay a Recycling Deposit Fee Title 18 1609

It is an offense to willfully refuse, neglect, or fail to pay a Recycling Deposit Fee

Public Safety

Animals at Large in VillagesTitle 21 §301

No pigs, goats, sheep, horses, cattle, carabao or domestic animals other than dogs, fowl, and cats can be allowed to run loose or be at large in any public place. Dogs must have an identification tag.

Public Safety

Animals prohibited near residence.Title 21 §305

No owner or occupant can keep any pigs, goats, sheep, horses, cattle, carabao or domestic animals other than dogs, fowl, and cats, within 50 feet of any building used for human habitation without written authorization from the State Sanitarian.

Public Safety

Harming or killing a manta rayTitle 18 §1206

Chapter 12 establishes a Manta Ray Sanctuary, and states that R&D will promulgate regulations for the management of the Sanctuary. These regulations are currently being drafted.

Public Safety

Plastic BagTitle 15 §1201

It is an offense for any retailer to distribute plastic grocery bags after the date of prohibition (exact date TBC – likely June 2014). Note that there is currently an amendment bill before Legislature for this chapter that will likely move the law to Title 18, §1701

Public Safety

LitteringTitle 11 §330

No person may discard any biodegradable or non-biodegradable litter on any property (unless it is on their own property).

Public Safety

Junk VehiclesTitle 11 §813

Once a person has received a warning regarding a junk vehicle, a person will be guilty of littering if they leave a junk vehicle on any property (public or private) for more than 30 days after receiving that notice. This section provides a detailed description of what constitutes a ‘junk car’.

Public Safety



Yap State RegulationsYap State Recycling Program Regulations

These Regulations regulate the Yap State Recycling Program and places requirements on the Recycling Agent and importers. All importers are required to pay the Recycling Deposit for each item covered by the Regulations. The Recycling Agent has several responsibilities under these Regulations


Yap State Earth Moving Activities Regulations

These Regulations require individuals undertaking any earthmoving activities that involve the use of heavy machinery, or the movement of more than 10 cubic yards of soil/coral etc, or will result in the filling of wetlands or coastal waters, to obtain a permit from the EPA prior to commencing work. The person must comply with the terms and conditions of that permit


Yap State Environmental Impact assessment Regulations

Any person undertaking any project, except for work on existing structures, basic research that does not disturb an environmental resource, interior alterations to an existing structure, or construction using exclusively traditional materials and techniques, is required to prepare a Preliminary Environmental Impact Statement and submit it to the EPA prior to commencing any work. If the EPA Board determines from the Preliminary Environmental Impact Statement that the project may have a significant environmental impact, then they will notify the proponent and require the proponent to prepare a draft EIS, and then a final EIS before undertaking any work. Non-compliance with any conditions of an approval, failing to obtain a PEIS or, where required, a final EIS before commencing work, or undertaking any work outside the scope of an approved PEIS or Final EIS, is illegal. The EPA will issue a Cease and Desist Order in any such scenario, and the proponent may be prosecuted, or have their approval revoked.


Yap State Pesticide Regulations These Regulations create the following requirements which, when breached, constitute an offense:Prohibition on experimental pesticides Registration and certification of any person who applies pesticidesLabeling requirements of all pesticidesStorage requirements of pesticidesRecord keeping and disposal requirements


Yap State Oil Spill Regulations These Regulations create reporting requirements for any person who spills, or is responsible for the spill, of any oil products into the environment.


Sea Cucumber Regulations These Regulations create strict requirements for any person or business who wishes to farm, harvest or export sea cucumbers. Farming may only be done with a license, and only farmed sea cucumbers can be harvested and exported. Sea cucumbers can only be harvested in accordance with a permit. Non-compliance with any of these requirements constitutes an offense.

Public Safety

Yap Regulations and Bills to be Proposed for 2014Yap State Plastic Bag



RegulationsAsbestos RegulationsEnforcement BillBurning RegulationsProposed Styrofoam Ban BillRegulations for the Environmental Clearance of Marine VesselsProtected Areas Network BillMarine Protected Areas RegulationsPersistent Organic Pollutants RegulationsProtected Species and Government Events BillProhibition on Exportation of Reef Resources BillManta Ray Sanctuary RegulationsFruit Bat Sanctuary BillWaste Water and Sewerage RegulationsDrinking Water RegulationsEnvironmental Requirements for Transport Vessels Sea Turtle RegulationsChuuk StateTitle “The Municipal Marine Conservation Act of April 2013

Providing for the conservation of marine areas within the jurisdiction of municipality establishing procedures for the creation of Municipal Marine Conservation Areas, authorizing the issuance of license fees.

Department of Marine Resources

Adoption of Earthmoving Regulations 1995Section 5 Law No. 2-94-01

All earthmoving within the Chuuk State shall be conducted in accordance with these regulations and in such a way as to prevent accelerated erosion and accelerate sedimentation. To accomplish this, all persons engaging in earthmoving activities shall design, implement, and maintain erosion and sedimentation control measures which effectively prevent accelerated erosion and accelerated sedimentation.

Chuuk EPA

Air, Land and Water pollution The Trust Territory Pesticide RegulationsAw 4C-78 (63 TTC 505 et seq.)

The purpose of these regulations is to establish a system of control over the importation, distribution, sale, and use of pesticides by persons within the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.

Chuuk EPA

Toilet Facilities and sewage disposal regulationsLaw 2-94-01

The purpose of these regulations is to establish minimum standards for toilet facilities and sewage disposal to minimize environmental pollution, health hazards, and public nuisance from such facilities.

Chuuk EPA

Chuuk State Environmental Protection ActSection 1, Article IV

The implementation Section 1, Article IV of the State Constitution by providing for the protection and enhancement of environmental quality of air, land and water of Chuuk State; to provide for the establishment of Chuuk State Environmental Protection Agency to provide for cooperation between the Agency and other entities in

Chuuk EPA



protecting the environment, abd for other purposes.Marine & Fresh Water Quality Standard RegulationPublic Law 2-94-01

The purpose of these regulations is to identify the use for which the various water of Chuuk State shall be maintained and protected, to specify the water quality standards required to maintain the designated uses, and to

Chuuk EPA

Environmental Impact Assessment RegulationsPublic Law 2-94-01

The purpose of these regulations is to implement Section 6 of the Chuuk State Environmental Protection Act by establishing standard procedures for preparation of an environmental impact assessment statement prior to taking or funding any major action that may significantly affect the quality of the human environment. The EIA process is intended to help the general public and government officials making decisions with the understanding of environmental consequences of their decisions, and take actions consistent with the goal of protecting, restoring, and enhancing the environment.

Chuuk EPA

State Fishery ZoneChapter 1, Act of 1983 TSL 5 92

The purpose of this Act is to promote economic development and to manage and conserve living sea resources within the jurisdiction of the State of Chuuk pursuant to the Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia

Chuuk EPA

Dynamiting Fish ProhibitedChapter 9 April 9, 1969

It shall be unlawful for any person to use a canoe, boat or motor for the purpose of diving for, selling, purchasing, or possessing fish which have been caught by the illegal use of dynamite or other explosives.

Chuuk Attorney General

Marine –Species PreventionTitle 23 FSMC Resource Conservation

101 Use of explosives, poisons, chemicals, etc. prohibited105 Limitations on taking turtles106 Control of sponges107 Control of mother-of-pearl oyster shell108 Trochus115 Limitations on taking marine mammals


Chapter 3: Endangered Species Act of 1975

The indigenous plants and animals of the Trust Territory are aesthetic, ecological, historical, recreational, scientific, and economic value and it is policy of the government of the Trust Territory to foster the well-being of their plants and animals by whatever means necessary to prevent the extinction of any species or subspecies from our islands or water surrounding them



Annex 6: Summary of barriers and long-term solutions to barriers identified by stakeholders during the PPG process.

Barriers Long-term Solutions to Barriers?1. Institutional Capacity Project management Financial management Lack of technical skill (LOCAL) Limited knowledge Brain Drain - Most knowledgeable people are drawn

from state to national government or offshore

Improve quality through in-job trainings Putting the right person with skillsets Improve HR at agencies (strict performance-based

monitoring program for staff) Hire Expats (possibly volunteers) for short term

w/goals to transfer skills to local staff Peer-learning networks Build clear capacity development outputs into donor

aid projects Working with education institutions to provide short-

term training needs Scholarships and internships Mechanisms for utilizing knowledge / skills of

retired experts Equal opportunity, i.e., expats gets bonus and

benefits than locals2. Information Management / Information sharing and data flow Ownership of information Enhance partnership and collaboration with clear

roles and responsibilities Share and report through public media

Lack of coordination/Coordinator Establish MOUs Explore expanding/utilizing biodiversity clearing-

house MOU between COM FSM, National FSM govt and State govts.

No standard format/template Develop or standardize formats for ease of reporting and sharing data

Lack of clearing house Designate who’s responsible to compile and manage data

Create policies for clearing house servers Make use of GeoMiconesia.fm spatial data server

Inability to compile, analyze and produce reliable data/reports

Capacity building

Fragmented data due to geographical stretch Centralize data gather referring to clearing house Lack of accountability Make staff accountable

Clear roles and responsibilities or TOR must reflect info management responsibilities/requirements

3. Scientific/Traditional Knowledge Base Ownership of data/information Clear MOUs and ownership of data

Accessibility Lack of resource/environmental management in

School curricula Promote resource management at all school levels

through awareness Retention schemes to promote public awareness

(with DOE) Transferring of scientific/traditional knowledge Language/communication barriers Simplification of scientific terms 4. Political Will


Barriers Long-term Solutions to Barriers? Lack of budgetary support for resource

management/biodiversity work Pressures from outside partners (development

priorities) Money-driven Lack of awareness Unwillingness to support conservation Conservation and economic development are

exclusive

Consultation with (and between) state and national leaders on significance of environment/biodiversity conservation project sustainability and replicating successful projects

Rigorous awareness programs Establish national standards/indicators

5. Coordination/Alignment of activities with Strategic Plans Plans are outdated Duplication of roles Breakdown in the flow of information Do not have the right people in the right places Cooperation/communication is only evident during

project life but ceases when funding expires

Update plans Develop national standards/policy that recognizes the

differences of the states Clear delineation of roles and responsibilities

6. Public Awareness Public awareness programs are focused on specific

problems/issues Establish awareness programs that follow a

comprehensive and holistic approach Sufficient funding is allocated to support public

awareness Local NGO participation

7. Land Tenure Conflict of interest over resources Solution- Educate and increase awareness of

communities so that they can cooperate and participate in the program

Conflict of ownership Solution- To come to an agreement as a traditional or

legal law enforcement The land tenure system is different in all the states

Strengthen community ownership and sustain public education

Conservation easement model a possible solution to dealing with conflict of tenure – requires working models so that owners can see how it works elsewhere in FSM

8. Enforcement of Plans and Regulations Lack of cooperation between enforcement officers and

AG’s Office AG’s Office have better understanding of the

importance of the enforcement Build capacity of the enforcement officers Reluctant to report on to relatives and friends Solution- Better trained enforcement officers

provided that the state legal system is effective; Lack of community engagement and awareness of

their rights as natural resource recipients Solution- Educational awareness Empower communities to do better enforcement Lack of resources for enforcement Requires human capacity and equipment, budget to

operate9. Financial Flow Efficiency, expediency, and effectiveness of

activities’ implementation due to delay with payment, fund disbursement, and document processing and approval

Consistency and implementation stunted by processing and disbursement

Structural organization and finance schemes to be improved or revised with different arrangements and

Dedicated FSM Finance person for financing processes needs for this GEF STAR project;

What other options of organization and finance framework available and suitable for improved financing procedures, disbursement, and implementation;

Internal Finance Policy (ODA policy linking to improved internal policy??) to look at improvements


Barriers Long-term Solutions to Barriers?options for improved implementation

Delay of fund for project Five governments with different processes,

procedures, systems Management of funds from both levels of government

and recommendations for overall financing mechanisms;

Improved awareness within National, respective Congressmen and Congress as a whole, State governments including Legislative Branch eg offices relevant to the Project and communities

10. Legal Alignment/ Lack Of National Policies Inadequate environmental policies Policy alignment

Recognition of customary law and practices relating management of PAs

Protected Areas as a whole having a law recognizing them and laying out processes for funds to support community projects

Protected Areas legal recognition for respective PAs laying out processes for funds to support community projects

Enabling Environment for effective PA management –

Integrated Resource Management policy or law to be developed e.g. land use plan for communities or similar initiative as a spatial product

Focus on development of capacity and coordination as part of this GEF STAR project to improve, enhance effectiveness and implementation of projects

Developing an overall guideline document for environmental protection, conservation, natural resource management to create an enabling environment

Build sustainability by incorporating activities into government operation


Annex 7: Current and Proposed New Protected Areas of the FSM “High Islands”.

Table 24. The current FSM PAN and proposed new PAs identified by stakeholders during the PPG process.

PA NameTerrestri

al or Marine

Area (ha) Managed By PA

Status

Gaz

ette

d

Eas

emen

t

Man

agem

ent

Plan

s

Eff

ectiv

ely

Man

aged

Pohnpei

1 Pohnpei Watershed Forest Reserve (Phase 1)

Terrestrial 2330 Community + State

Existing yes no yes (Nett only)

no

2 Enipein Mangrove Reserve**


Existing yes no CAP only

Yes

3 Senpehn Mangrove Reserve


Existing yes no no* No

4 Kehpara Marine PA Marine 189 Community + State

Existing yes no no* Yes

5 Namwen Na Marine PA Marine 71 Community + State


6 Namwen Naningih Marine PA

Marine 34 Community + State


7 Pwudoi Marine PA Marine 139 Community + State


8 Sapwitik Marine PA Marine 82.7 Community + State

Existing yes no CAP only

Yes

9 Mwand (Dekehos) Marine PA

Marine 460 Community + State


10 Nanwap Marine PA Marine 305 Community + State

Existing yes no Yes Yes

11 Awak Watershed Basin Terrestrial 800 Community New no no no** No12 Pohnpei Watershed

Forest Reserve (Phase 2)Terrestrial 4012 Community +

StateNew no no no** No

13 Palikir Pass Marine 180 n/a New no no no No14 Peniou Island Marine 160 n/a New no no no* Yes15 Nahtik Marine Marine 75 Community +

StateExisting yes no yes yes

16 Dehpehk/Takaieu Marine 212 Community + State

Existing yes no yes yes

Kosrae

1 Tafunsak Marine 58.8 Community Existing no~ no yes unknown

2 Utwe Biosphere Reserve (includes the Utwe-

Marine 130.88 Community + Biosphere

Existing yes no yes unknown


PA NameTerrestri

al or Marine


Status

Gaz

ette

d

Eas

emen

t

Man

agem

ent

Plan

s

Eff

ectiv

ely

Man

aged

Walung Marine PA) Committee + State

3 Awane Marine 131.2 Community Existing no~ no no* unknown

4 Tukasungai ( Trochus niloticus) Sanctuary

Marine 277.8 State Existing yes no no unknown

5 Olum Watershed PA Terrestrial 310.3 Community Existing no~ no no* unknown

6 Pikensukar MPA Marine 20 n/a New no no no* n/a7 Kuuplu Mangrove Forest

Reserve Terrestrial 44.8 n/a New no no no n/a

8 Tofol Watershed Area Terrestrial 305.9 n/a New no no no n/a9 Tukunsruh MPA

(Mangrove Forest)Marine 150A n/a New no no no* n/a

10 Yela Ka Forest Terrestrial**

520.3 Community Existing no~ yes yes yes

Chuuk

1 UFO: Ununo, Fongen, Onongoch (Fefen)

Terrestrial**

160 Community Existing no no no* unknown

2 Parem Marine 72 Community Existing no no yes unknown

3 Oror (Fefen) Terrestrial 35 Community Existing no no no unknown

4 Wichikuno (Tol (High) Island)

Marine 706 Community New no no no unknown

5 Mwanukun (Uman (High) Island

Marine 1,365 Community New no no no* unknown

6 Winifurer (Weno) Terrestrial 231 Community New no no no unknown

7 Witipon (Weno) Terrestrial 2,161 Community New no no no unknown

8 Winipot (Tol) Terrestrial 193 Community New no no no unknown

9 Sapeta (Fefen) Terrestrial 114 Community New no no no unknown

10 Pianu Pass (Faichuuk) Marine 706 Community New no no no* unknown

11 Neoch Marine 11598 Community New no no no unknown

12 Northeast Pass (Weno Marine 2050 Community New no no no unknown

13 Epinup Mangrove Reserve

Terrestrial NO LONGER EXISTS (was listed in the PIF)

Yap

1 Nimpal Channel Marine 79.36 Community Existing no no yes yes


PA NameTerrestri

al or Marine


Status

Gaz

ette

d

Eas

emen

t

Man

agem

ent

Plan

s

Eff

ectiv

ely

Man

aged

2 Riken Marine 26.97 Community Existing no no no yes 3 North Rumung Marine 307.29 Community Existing no no yes yes4 West Rumung Marine 90.94 Community Existing no no yes yes5 Wacholab-1 Marine 63.29 Community Existing no no no unkno

wn6 Wacholab-2 Marine 92.15 Community Existing no no no unkno

wn7 West Fanif Marine 360.5 Community Existing no no yes unkno

wn8 Tamil Marine 632.46 Community Existing no no yes yes9 Reey MCA Marine 177.09 Community Existing no no yes yes10 Kaday & Okaw

mangrove Terrestrial 18.59 Community Existing no no unkn

ownunknown

11 Tomil (Maaq) Mangrove Terrestrial 14.16 Community Existing no no unknown

unknown

12 Dalipebinaw School Forest

Terrestrial 30.35 Community Existing no no unknown

unknown

13 Kanif mangrove Reserve Terrestrial 2.22 Community Existing no no no unknown

14 Gargey Village T’olo Mangrove locally managed area

Terrestrial 2.1 Community Existing no no no unknown

15 Gargey Village Fat’earcheq hillside “ciling traditional timber land”

Terrestrial 1.6 Community Existing no no no unknown

Notes: A: This is an estimated area. Exact boundary still being negotiated with community; *: Community Action Plans completed. Development of Management Plan either in the pipeline, in process or in review; **: Interest expressed in expanding to a Ridge to Reef Approach; ~ : In process of legalizing.


Annex 8: The List of PA Focus Sites Selected for the R2R Project

Table 25. The list of R2R PA Focus Sites selected by stakeholders during the PPG process.

Name of PA Terrestrial or Marine

Area (ha)

PA Status Notes

Yap

Nimpal Channel Marine 79 Existing Highly threatened. Easy to work in. Area of biodiversity significance. Effectively managed.

Reey Marine 177 Existing Highly threatened. Easy to work in. Effectively managed. A Micronesia Challenge site.

Riken Marine 27 Existing Highly threatened. Easy to work in. Area of biodiversity significance. Effectively managed.

Tamil Marine 632 Existing Highly threatened. Easy to work in. Very active community on marine work and very interested to expand to terrestrial protection. Although currently effectively managed, increased size may be a barrier to effective management.

Gargey Village Fat'earcheg Hillside

Terrestrial 1.6 Existing Highly threatened. Easy to work in. Area of biodiversity significance. Management not currently effective.

Gargey Village T'olo Mangrove Forest

Terrestrial 2.1 Existing Highly threatened. Easy to work in. Area of biodiversity significance. Management not currently effective.

Chuuk

Parem Marine 72 Existing Linked to UFO above. Good accessibility. Good R2R site. An area of biodiversity significance. A Micronesia Challenge site.

Oror Terrestrial 35 Existing Linked to UFO above. Good accessibility. Good R2R site. An area of biodiversity significance.

Ununo Terrestrial 160 Existing Community willingness and commitment since 1986. Conservation Action Plan and governance in place. In process of developing management plans. Willing to expand to marine area. Good R2R site. An area of biodiversity significance. A Micronesia Challenge site.

Mwanukun and Neoch Marine 10583 New Municipal ordinance in place. Community willingness and enforcement at community level in effect. Good accessibility. Good R2R site. An area of biodiversity significance.

Wichikuno (Tol) Marine 706 New REA recommended, needs community commitment, lacks governance.

Winifurer Terrestrial 231 New Institutional arrangement and good stakeholders' collaboration in place.

Winipot (Tol) Terrestrial 193 New Requires community engagement. No clear boundaries.

Witipon Terrestrial 2.16 New Easy community mobilization, existing governance structure, accessible. Good R2R site. An area of biodiversity significance.

Pohnpei



Area (ha)

PA Status Notes

Dehpekh/Takaieu Marine 212 Existing One of two MPAs in the municipality of U. Watershed FR fully gazetted. Very strong community involvement. Well-managed. Communication and collaboration with local state and national agencies. Would make a good R2R site along with the other MPA in U (Mwand).

Kehpara Marine 189 Existing Good enforcement during spawning peak. Good partnership with private landowners. Need larger community support and engagement.

Mwand (Dekehos) Marine 460 Existing One of two MPAs in the municipality of U. Watershed FR fully gazetted. Varying levels of community involvement. Communication and collaboration with local state and national agencies. Some enforcement by dive operations. Would make a good R2R site along with the other MPA in U (Dehpehk).

Nahtik Marine 75 Existing Well-managed with strong community leadership support.

Namwen Na Marine 71 Existing One of three MPAs in the municipality of Madolenihmw. Watershed FR fully gazetted. No or very little community involvement. Communication and collaboration with local state and national agencies. Madolenihmw is in the process of developing a Municipal Resource Management Plan. Would make a good R2R site along with other three existing MPAs in Madolenihmw. (Senpehn and Naningih)

Namwen Naningih Marine 34 Existing One of three MPAs in the municipality of Madolenihmw. Watershed FR fully gazetted. No or very limited community involvement. Communication and collaboration with local state and national agencies. Madolenihmw is in the process of developing a Municipal Resource Management Plan. Would make a good R2R site along with other three existing MPAs in Madolenihmw. (Namwen Na and Senpehn)

Nanwap Marine 305 Existing Well-managed with community enforcement and management plans in place.

Pwudoi Marine 139 Existing No community involvement. Sapwitik Marine 83 Existing Community support in place. Has Municipal ordinance

to support enforcement.Enipein Mangrove Reserve

Terrestrial 955 Existing Strong community support.

Pohnpei Watershed Forest Reserve (Phase I)

Terrestrial 2330 Existing Good Municipal and community support.

Senpehn Mangrove Reserve

Terrestrial 130 Existing One of three MPAs in the municipality of Madolenihmw. Watershed FR fully gazetted. Varying levels of community involvement. Communication and collaboration with local state and national agencies. Madolenihmw is in the process of developing a Municipal Resource Management Plan. Would make a



Area (ha)

PA Status Notes

good R2R site along with other three existing MPAs in Madolenihmw. (Namwen Na and Naningih)

Palikir Pass Marine 180 New High potential for eco-tourism; known fish spawning area according to various research; Highly recommended by Sokehs Municipal Government and surf and dive companies; Pending legal status. Known SPAGS for groupers and Area of Biodiversity significance.

Peniou Island Marine 160 New Highly recommended by 6 villages/communities in Kitti; Completed most consultation process with pending legal status; Potential fish spawning area according to local fisherman; area of biological significance. A Micronesia Challenge site.

Awak Watershed Basin Terrestrial 800 New Co-Management initiative with strong community leadership and partner agencies; well-managed watershed forest reserve; Piloting community-based water quality project with strong stakeholder participation and support. A Micronesia Challenge site (U WFR). Area of Biodiversity significance.

Pohnpei Watershed Forest Reserve (Phase II)

Terrestrial 4012 New Improved co-management initiatives further strengthening partnerships between community leadership, municipal governments and state agencies; improved enforcement and surveillance programs through community participation; recognized by legal status but not fully delineated. Area of Biodiversity significance.

Kosrae

Awane Marine 131 Existing Highly threatened. Requires immediate resources. An area of biodiversity significance. Managed by KIRMA and the Lelu Municipality, specifically the Lelu Municipal resource management committee.

Tafunsak Marine 59 Existing Threatened, located near Kosrae's industrialized port (seaport, airport, and fuel depot). A Micronesia Challenge site and has already strong community support but still requires more resources. State-owned but being promoted by the Tafunsak Municipal government, an ABS site.

Tukasungai Marine 278 Existing State-owned site. KIRMA/Department of Resources and Economic Affairs (DREA) manage the site. DREA involved for fisheries development. Limited community involvement.

Utwe Biosphere Reserve (includes the Utwe-Walung MPA)

Marine 131 Existing Strong community support. Recognised by state law. Existing institutional arrangements. Planned road construction poses a great threat, especially south-west area. Good R2R site. An area of biodiversity significance. A Micronesia Challenge site. First biosphere reserve in the FSM. An ABS site and an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Managed by KIRMA and KSCO.

Olum Watershed Terrestrial 310 Existing Private lands. Strong community support. Managed by KIRMA in partnership with landowners. An ABS site, with native upland forest. Includes cultural and



Area (ha)

PA Status Notes

historical sites.Yela Ka Forest Terrestrial 520 Existing Good structure in place. Already has resources. The

first conservation easement in the FSM, also an ABS site.

Pikensukar Marine 20 New Community-declared. Management being developed by the Malem Municipal government, KIRMA and KCSO and the site's private landowners.

Tukunsruh Mangrove Forest

Marine 150 New Newly declared site. An area of biodiversity significance. Close to REA recommended site. Managed by KIRMA with the Tafunsad Municipal government. One of two mangrove areas that Kosrae State is trying to pilot as a sustainable mangrove-use reserve.

Kuuplu Mangrove Forest

Terrestrial 45 New Easy access. However, it is a big site and has multiple landowners. Managed by KIRMA in partnership with the Tafunsak Municipal government. One of two mangrove areas that Kosrae State is trying to pilot as a sustainable mangrove-use reserve.

Tofol Watershed Area Terrestrial 306 New State-owned site. Large watershed area. An area of biodiversity significance. An ABS site, managed primarily by KIRMA and the Lelu Municipality, with limited community involvement. One of the primary watersheds in Kosrae. Owned and regulated by the State, but Lelu municipality end water users


Annex 9: A Summary of the FSM PAN GAP Analysis.

Table 26. Summary of the GAP analysis for the FSM PAN based on the 2009 TNC study.

FeatureTotal Area of Feature

Area of Features Represented in

PAsMC Target

% of MC Target

AchievedHectares Hectares % % Hectares

Outer island land 7095 1826 26 20 1419 129Agroforest 14574 206 1 20 2915 7Barren 118 1 1 20 24 4Cropland 79 2 3 20 16 13Grassland or Savanna 282 10 4 20 56 18Mangrove Forest 9446 1326 14 20 1889 70Marsh 549 10 2 20 110 9Palm Forest 1912 1191 62 20 382 312Savanna 988 34 3 20 198 17Savanna or Other Shrub/Grass 1766 0 0 20 353 0Secondary Vegetation 1889 204 11 20 378 54Swamp Forest 569 92 16 20 114 81Upland Forest 31734 5584 18 20 6347 88Urban Buildup 1158 14 1 20 232 6Urban Cultivated 694 13 2 20 139 9Water 121 16 13 20 24 67Shelf 777234 14589 2 30 233170 6Atoll lagoon 0 deep lagoon 430718 84855 20 30 129215 66Atoll lagoon 0 deep lagoon with constructions 199 0 0 30 60 0Atoll lagoon 0 inner slope 73184 14399 20 30 21955 66Atoll lagoon 0 shallow lagoon 225 0 0 30 68 0Atoll patch 0 faro reef flat 2557 2557 100 30 767 333Atoll patch 0 lagoon pinnacle 502 78 15 30 151 52Atoll patch 0 reef flat 28 0 0 30 8 0Atoll patch 0 subtidal reef flat 470 0 0 30 141 0Atoll rim 0 enclosed lagoon or basin 188 143 76 30 56 255Atoll rim 0 forereef 24364 6124 25 30 7309 84Atoll rim 0 pass 8292 1709 21 30 2488 69Atoll rim 0 pass reef flat 164 79 48 30 49 161Atoll rim 0 reef flat 49589 17288 35 30 14877 116Atoll rim 0 ridge and fossil crest 46 0 0 30 14 0Atoll rim 0 subtidal reef flat 24696 2502 10 30 7409 34Bank barrier 0 forereef 1636 0 0 30 491 0Bank barrier 0 reef flat 1030 0 0 30 309 0Bank lagoon 0 enclosed lagoon 9 0 0 30 3 0Bank lagoon 0 shallow lagoonal terrace 106 0 0 30 32 0Bay exposed fringing 0 bay exposed fringing 1013 73 7 30 304 24Coastal Barrier Reef Complex 0 channel 3 1 43 30 1 100Coastal Barrier Reef Complex 0 enclosed basin 151 13 8 30 45 29Coastal Barrier Reef Complex 0 enclosed lagoon 762 11 1 30 229 5Coastal Barrier Reef Complex 0 enclosed lagoon with constructions

126 0 0 30 38 0

Coastal Barrier Reef Complex 0 forereef 2373 154 6 30 712 22Coastal Barrier Reef Complex 0 pass 497 102 21 30 149 68Coastal Barrier Reef Complex 0 reef flat 6735 604 9 30 2021 30Coastal Barrier Reef Complex 0 shallow terrace 2105 68 3 30 632 11


FeatureTotal Area of Feature

Area of Features Represented in

PAsMC Target

% of MC Target

AchievedHectares Hectares % % Hectares

Coastal Barrier Reef Complex 0 shallow terrace with constructions

334 0 0 30 100 0

Diffuse fringing 0 diffuse fringing 438 82 19 30 131 63Drowned atoll 0 bridge 550 0 0 30 165 0Drowned atoll 0 drowned inner slope 37294 0 0 30 11188 0Drowned atoll 0 drowned lagoon 432486 0 0 30 129746 0Drowned atoll 0 drowned pass 4894 0 0 30 1468 0Drowned atoll 0 drowned patch 2312 0 0 30 694 0Drowned atoll 0 drowned rim 100871 0 0 30 30261 0Drowned bank 0 drowned bank 39152 0 0 30 11746 0Fringing of coastal barrier complex 0 diffuse fringing 2834 68 2 30 850 8Fringing of coastal barrier complex 0 reef flat 511 4 1 30 153 3Imbricated Barrier Reef Complex 0 deep drowned reef flat 51 0 0 30 15 0Imbricated Barrier Reef Complex 0 reef flat 59 0 0 30 18 0Intra0lagoon patch0reef complex 0 forereef 465 0 0 30 140 0Intra0lagoon patch0reef complex 0 pinnacle 529 30 6 30 159 19Intra0lagoon patch0reef complex 0 reef flat 1037 32 3 30 311 10Intra0lagoon patch0reef complex 0 subtidal reef flat 42 0 0 30 13 0Island lagoon 0 deep lagoon 183061 1293 1 30 54918 2Island lagoon 0 shallow lagoon with constructions 21239 0 0 30 6372 0Lagoon exposed fringing 0 deep terrace 2221 11 0 30 666 2Lagoon exposed fringing 0 forereef 1170 1 0 30 351 0Lagoon exposed fringing 0 reef flat 3939 140 4 30 1182 12Lagoon exposed fringing 0 reticulated fringing 7725 552 7 30 2318 24Ocean exposed fringing 0 channel 15 13 86 30 5 260Ocean exposed fringing 0 enclosed lagoon or basin 6 0 0 30 2 0 Ocean exposed fringing 0 forereef 789 3 0 30 237 1 Ocean exposed fringing 0 pass 129 0 0 30 39 0Ocean exposed fringing 0 reef flat 1630 72 4 30 489 15Outer Barrier Reef Complex 0 deep terrace 17052 19 0 30 5116 0Outer Barrier Reef Complex 0 enclosed basin 704 21 3 30 211 10Outer Barrier Reef Complex 0 forereef 5588 1648 29 30 1676 98Outer Barrier Reef Complex 0 pass 2684 39 1 30 805 5Outer Barrier Reef Complex 0 reef flat 10451 2722 26 30 3135 87Outer Barrier Reef Complex 0 shallow terrace 979 0 0 30 294 0Outer Barrier Reef Complex 0 subtidal reef flat 1749 658 38 30 525 125Uplifted atoll 0 forereef 171 0 0 30 51 0Uplifted atoll 0 uplifted reef flat 38 0 0 30 11 0Cultural Sites 4 0 0 30 1 0Dive Sites 5 0 2 30 2 0Ship Wrecks 0 0 0 30 0 0REA Sites 28 0 0 30 8 0SPAGS 96 41 43 30 29 141Migrating SPAGS 423 354 84 30 127 279Octopus SPAGS 706 706 100 30 212 333Parrot Fish 8 1 15 30 2 50Fruit Bats 6 0 2 30 2 0Gray Duck 729 587 81 30 219 268Swiflet Roosting 0 0 0 30 0 0Turtle Nesting Area 3 0 0 30 1 0Turtle Nesting Areas 163 16 10 30 49 33Turtle Nesting Ground 79 25 31 30 24 104Seagrass 353 52 15 30 106 49Blue hole 26 10 37 30 8 125


Annex 10: A Summary of the FSM SLM Dry Litter Piggery project sites.

Table 27. Summary of SLM sites identified by State Focal Points during the PPG process. See Map 7 for location of project sites.

State SLM Site Name Area (ha) Site Status Number of piggeries River status

Pohnpei Ipwek Catchment 235 New 7 families, 51 pigs Highly contaminated with E.coli 3,150 mpn/100 ml

Pohnpei Awak Catchment 323 Existing Piggery Waste Management Revolving Fund project

Yap Dachangar Catchment 162 New 5 families 11 pigs, Agricultural Station 10 pigs, total 21 pigs

River is contaminated, No data on contamination levels. EPA Yap will start monitoring soon

Kosrae Finkol Catchment 1180 New Unknown River is contaminated, No data on contamination levels

Chuuk Nefounimas Catchment

126 New 10 Piggeries, 26 pigs River is contaminated, No data on contamination levels

Total 5 Catchments 2026


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